Two baby swans have been killed in Barnsley, sparking an appeal for information from South Yorkshire Police.

On Thursday 3 October a large cygnet was found dead in Hoyle Mill Ponds, Dearne Valley Park. 

The following morning, a second large cygnet was found dead, with gunshot wounds on its body.

It is also believed that a third cygnet from the herd of eight has since gone missing.

South Yorkshire Police are working closely with the RSPCA to find those responsible for the death of these swans. 

RSPCA Chief Inspector for South Yorkshire, Lynsey Harris, said: “It is absolutely disgusting that someone has purposefully targeted and killed these beautiful young birds who would have brought a lot of joy to people visiting this park. We’d appeal to anyone with first-hand knowledge about this cruel incident to contact either ourselves or the police.”

All wild birds – including swans – are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take them except under licence. 

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

If you have information that could assist officers with their inquiry, please get in touch online, via live chat or by calling 101 quoting incident number 374 of 14 October 2024. 

You can also report information to the RSPCA here- https://www.rspca.org.uk/reportaconcern