Animal cruelty officers probe attack on Broadwood Loch swan

A BEAUTIFUL swan which is one of the natural stars of Broadwood Loch has been injured in a horrific attack.

The News and Chronicle received calls from shocked locals who saw the magnificent creature with a noticeable wound in its neck - and its snowy white features matted with blood.

Recently the swan became a mum and can often be seen protectively looking after her young charges as the cygnets swim around her - but nature lovers who like to observe their unique family dynamic contacted the Scottish SPCA last week, after seeing that all was not well.

It is understood the organisation has tried and failed to retrieve the bird, described by officers as “quite feisty”.

Officers intended to launch a boat at time of going to press in their ongoing bid to administer the treatment she needs.

The possibility that the swan was attacked by another bird cannot be ruled out but there has also been speculation that a thug with an airgun could be responsible.

A spokersperson for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds said that sadly, there are many cases of swans being injured by sick thugs.

She said: “Swans are very familiar and very visible. Violence against them is not unusual but crimes against the Wildlife and Countryside Act can potentially lead to a maxiumum six month prison term or a fine of £5000.”

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said, “Animals are regularly the target of malicious airgun attacks and this continues to cause the society great concern.”

The Scottish SPCA’s special helpline number is 03000 999 999.