Feral youths have been taunting and battering a country park's swans with sticks, while sick thieves have stolen their protected eggs, a shocked council has heard. Swans are highly protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it a criminal offence to intentionally kill or injure a wild swan or damage their nests and eggs.
Incidents at Moses Gate Country Park
Sue Haworth, a Reform UK councillor for Farnworth in Bolton, Greater Manchester, told a council meeting that children had reportedly been taunting or hitting a swan with sticks at Moses Gate Country Park. She said one swan was found dead with neck injuries. Another incident in May involved a swan being pushed or thrown, which was reported to the police.
Haworth also highlighted that around 25 swan eggs had been reported missing at the park this year. She said volunteers know of the swans' nests and report the eggs are being stolen by people in the park.
Harmful Feeding and Anti-Social Behaviour
The councillor added that disgusting food, such as doner kebab, spicy wedges, and chicken with bones and sauce, is being left for swans, which can kill the wildlife. Such food is also thrown into the water. At the bird hide in Moses Gate Park, used for birdwatching, there is evidence of anti-social behaviour and crime, including vandalism, graffiti, charring from fires, and strong smelling urine.
Council Motion and Response
The incidents were discussed as Bolton councillors debated a motion proposed by councillor Debbie Newall seeking to commit the authority to adopting an animal welfare charter. The motion, which was supported by councillors, affirms a whole-council approach to animal welfare, recognising its relevance across multiple service areas. During the debate, Haworth updated members on recent reports of animal abuse at the park, noting that residents in Farnworth continue to demand appropriate police and council action in country parks.
Councillor Liam Barnard, of the ruling Labour council, agreed with Haworth, saying that residents in his ward have very similar concerns.
National Context: Catapult Crime
Earlier this month, police, politicians, and animal welfare charities met Home Office officials to discuss the impact of catapult crime after attacks on swans and other wildlife. One police force reports recording an average of 14 crimes a day involving the weapons, with teenagers posting videos online of wildlife being shot. A government spokesperson said: 'Catapults should not be used for illegal purposes, whether against people, wildlife or property. We continue to keep all relevant legislation under review in the interest of public safety.'
