Investigation after swan fatally shot in head

An investigation is under way after a swan was fatally shot in the head in a park.

The bird's body was found floating in a lake in Braunstone Park, Leicester, on Monday 10 March.

On Tuesday, the RSPCA appealed for information to try to identify who killed the swan.

RSPCA Inspector Helen Smith said: "It is always very distressing to think that people may be taking pleasure in targeting defenceless animals."

"The body of the swan was removed and examined and a small hole was found on the left side of their head and there was damage to the right eye," she added.

"There were no other signs of injury or struggle and the wound looks consistent with an air weapon wound."

She urged anyone with information about the bird's death to contact the charity or Leicestershire Police.

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