Swan Shot Seven Times with an Airgun in Huntingdon

A swan was found with seven airgun pellets in it at Bromholme Lane between Huntingdon and Brampton. The RSPCA had to put the swan to sleep and have urged people to be on the look out as this is the same area where a calf was stabbed to death only two months ago.

There is no evidence that the two incidents are linked but is obviously a cause for concern for animal authorities.

Any unmarked mute swan is the property of the crown and therefore the Queen. I believe there is still and law of criminal damage on crown property first introduced by Henry VIII in 1592. Any lawyers out there know if this is still in force. I seem to remember a case in the West Country back in the 90's of a man jailed under this law.

Anyone found guilty could be sentenced of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal could face six-month prison sentence and/or a £20,000 fine.

If you have any information you can call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999