A swan has died after being shot in the neck with a catapult at Cwmbran Boating Lake in south Wales. Police received reports of an injured swan at the lake on Tuesday, and Swan Rescue Wales took the bird to the vets, where two ball bearings were removed from its neck.
The swan was so badly injured that it had to be put to sleep. An appeal has now been launched to identify those responsible for the animal's death.
Council Condemns Incident
A spokesperson for Torfaen Council said: "There has recently been a distressing incident at Cwmbran boating lake where a swan was shot in the neck with a ball bearing from a catapult. Sadly, due to the severity of its injuries, the swan had to be put down."
"Deliberately injuring or killing wildlife is a criminal offence and will not be tolerated. Wildlife is protected by law, and those found responsible can face prosecution and significant penalties."
Police Investigation Underway
A Gwent Police spokesperson said: "Officers are carrying out enquiries after receiving a report of an injured swan at Cwmbran Boating Lake, Llanfrechfa Way, Cwmbran, on Tuesday, November 3. Swan Rescue South Wales volunteers took the injured swan to the vets for treatment."
"Two ball bearings were removed and, sadly, the swan was humanely put down. Neighbourhood officers are patrolling the area and will be viewing CCTV opportunities to establish the circumstances."
"Anyone with information that could help, can call us on 101, direct message us on Facebook or X, or contact us via our website quoting log reference 2600359720."
