The RSPCA is appealing for information after a juvenile swan was found decapitated alongside the Stourbridge Canal.
The upsetting discovery was made at around 9am on Tuesday 29 September by a passer-by, close to Wollaston Road and the nearby business park. The what3words location was pinks.gums.remind.
The member of the public contacted the RSPCA and a local Animal Rescue Officer for the charity, attended the scene.
The circumstances surrounding the swan’s death are currently being investigated, and the RSPCA is appealing to anyone who may have information which could help establish what happened.
The charity is particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious in the area around the time the swan was found, or who may have first-hand information about the incident. The swan was showing signs of rigor mortis, leading the charity to believe it may have died the day before.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: “This is a truly upsetting incident, and we are keen to establish what happened to this poor swan.
“We are not sure on the cause of death but the circumstances in which the swan was found are suspicious.
“Wild birds feel pain, fear and distress, and deserve our care and respect. To find a swan in such distressing circumstances is incredibly concerning and we would urge anyone who may have information about what happened to come forward.
“If you were in the area near the Stourbridge Canal, Wollaston Road, or the nearby business park on Tuesday morning, or the evening before, and noticed anything suspicious, please do get in touch with us.
“We’d also urge any residents in the area to check any CCTV or doorbell footage that they may have, as any information could prove vital.”
Anyone with information is urged to call the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference 01914580.
All wild birds, including swans, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is an offence to kill, injure or take them without a licence.
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