Swans shot and killed with an air gun, a “heinous” act when bodies were found on the riverbank

The male and female swans were found with “multiple pellets” in their necks and heads by a wildlife rescue team next to the River Arle in the quiet market town of Alresford, Hampshire

A pair of swans were “brutally” shot and killed with an airgun in a quiet riverside town in what has been described as a “heinous” act.

The male and female were found next to a river by a wildlife rescue team with “multiple pellets” stuck in their necks and heads.

Photos of the two birds that died on the banks of the River Arle in the quiet market town of Alresford, Hants show the terrible damage caused in the gruesome act.

The police are now investigating the incident.

Paul Michael Reynolds, manager of HART Wildlife Rescue in Medstead, Hants, said experts initially thought bird flu could have caused the swans’ deaths.

He said: “We reported yesterday (May 2) of two dead swans found near the Eel House on the River Arle in Alresford.

“The initial concern was that bird flu could be to blame, unfortunately it was confirmed yesterday by Swan Support, who kindly removed the bodies for testing, that the pair of swans had been brutally killed by an air force.

“They were a male and a female couple. Each swan had several pellets in its head and neck.

“We were also called to two other injured birds, a wood pigeon and a mallard, all of which were in close proximity and also on the river footpath.

“Hampshire Constabulary is involved and if you have any evidence or information regarding these crimes please call 101 reference number: 20220502-1468.

“This is an abominable act which we are sure no one would expect in Alresford, a village famous for its wonderful waterfowl!

Those responsible should be held accountable.”