Police are appealing for witnesses of animal cruelty after three swans were shot at a river in Kingston, with one dead and another left with injuries.

The first two swans were discovered by police in the river at Canbury Gardens on December 29.

One swan was found dead and another with injuries.

The injured swan was found washed up onto the pontoon reportedly “exhausted” and missing an eye.

Following a veterinary examination, it was revealed that the swan had sustained a pellet-related injury after it had become lodged in the swan’s skull.

A further swan was reported to have been shot on Monday (January 15) in the same location.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

A statement on the Kingston Police Facebook Page read: “#APPEAL | Police are appealing for witnesses of animal cruelty at Canbury Gardens KT2 after multiple incidents of swans being shot with pellet guns.

“On Wednesday 10th January 2024, it was reported to police that two swans had been shot in the river at Canbury Gardens KT2 on the Friday 29th December.

“One of the swans was found dead and another was injured. The injured swan was washed up onto the pontoon at Canbury Gardens, very exhausted and missing its right eye.

“The injured swan was taken to the vet, where an X-Ray determined that there was a pellet lodged in the swan's skull.

“On Monday 15th January 2024, it was reported that another swan had been shot in Canbury Gardens KT2.

“Police are appealing to any witnesses of these incidents to come forward with information by calling 101 and quoting ref 0400347/24.

“Alternatively, to remain anonymous witnesses can call Crimstoppers on 0800 555 111.

“Please can only genuine witnesses or people with information that can be corroborated to come forward.”