Appeal after swan is shot in Staffordshire

The RSPCA is appealing for information after a member of the public saw a man aiming at and shooting a swan in Alrewas, Staffordshire.

It took place on a lake at Croxall Lakes nature reserve in Croxall Road at 9am on Thursday, 7 July. A body of a swan was later found nearby.

RSPCA inspector Kate Levesley, who is investigating, said:

The charity emphasised that under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is illegal to take, injure or kill wild birds or interfere with their nest or eggs, unless under licence.

The maximum penalty, if found guilty, is six months in prison and/or a £5,000 fine.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who knows who might be behind it, is urged to contact the RSPCA in confidence on 0300 123 8018 or to call Staffordshire police on 101.