Police appeal for witnesses after sock placed over swan’s head in Lincoln
Police are appealing for witnesses after a sock was placed over a swan’s head in Lincoln.
It was found in a drain in the Coulson Road area of the city on Sunday (May 2nd).
Lincolnshire Police say they don't believe it was accidental and the mindless act could've killed the swan had a member of Yorkshire Swan and Rescue Hospital not reported the incident.
Officers say they’re working with the RSPCA to “ensure justice is served.”
RSPCA Inspector Kate Burris said: “The consequences of this mindless prank could have resulted in this poor swan suffering over a long period of time and ultimately ended in their death.”
What protections do birds have?
All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 which means it is an offence to kill, injure or take wild birds except under licence.
The maximum penalty, if found guilty could be:
Lincolnshire Police say any type of animal cruelty will not be tolerated and they will carry out a full investigation.
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