‘Mindless act’ could have killed swan

The incident was reported to the police by a member of Yorkshire Swan and Rescue Hospital, who said the swan had the item pulled tightly over its head.

The swan was in the Catchwater Drain in the Coulson Road area of Lincoln when it was rescued on May 2.

PC Llewellyn, investigating officer, said: “Any type of animal cruelty will not be tolerated and we will carry out a full investigation into this incident.

“We work with wildlife organisations who report these incidents to us so we can investigate.

“We believe the item has been placed on the swan’s head intentionally due to how snug the fit was and how far down the neck of the swan the tube was. We do not believe that this was accidental.

“Had the swan rescue not intervened, the swan would have either starved or potentially suffocated.

“We would like to hear from anyone who can assist us with our investigation or anyone who may have seen anyone around the swan in the water in the days leading up to May 2.”

Lincolnshire Police added that they are 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.

“Given that this is the breeding and nesting season at the moment, this could have also resulted in suffering and sadly death for any dependent offspring.

“We would urge anyone who has any information as to who may have done this to this poor swan. We would urge them to call the police on 101 or contact us on the RSPCA cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.”

All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) and it is an offence to kill, injure or take wild birds except under licence.

The maximum penalty, if found guilty, is six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine.

If you can assist with the police investigation, call 101 and quote crime reference number 21000242297,

If you see an animal in distress, please contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.

For more information on what you can do if you see a distressed animal, visit www.lincstrust.org.uk/wildlife/caring-for-wildlife