Shock x-rays show swan RIDDLED with air gun pellets as RSPCA hunt maniac
SHOCKING x-rays of a beautiful swan peppered with air gun pellets were released today in the hunt for the maniac who targeted the bird.
X-rays of a swan peppered with air gun pellets were released today
The images show how the male swan was shot in the beak, chest, wings, legs and tail by the gunman, leaving it in terrible pain and unable to escape.
Sadly, the ferocity of the attack was such that the badly injured bird had to be put to sleep.
They show the male swan was shot in the beak, chest, wings, legs and tail
The mute swan had initially been found with a neck wound in Cannock Road, Burntwood, Staffordshire, late last month.
But when it was treated at the RSPCA’s Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre, the full extent of its suffering was revealed by the x-rays.
The RSPCA released the graphic pictures in the hunt for the maniac who targeted the bird
Releasing the three graphic pictures today, the RSCPA warned the attacker faced a huge fine and up to six months behind bars.
It is cruel and causes horrific suffering
RSPCA inspector Rob Crutchley, who is investigating the case, said: “The swan had been completely peppered with pellets.
"He would have been in so much pain after what could have been a prolonged attack.
The charity warned the attacked faced a huge fine and up to six months behind bars
“It is shocking and disturbing to think that someone thinks it is acceptable to do this to an innocent animal. It is cruel and causes horrific suffering.
"We are appealing for people to come forward with information so we can find out who did this to this poor swan.”
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call the RSPCA’s confidential hotline on 0300 123 8018.