Sussex Police are appealing for information after two swans were found dead at the Southwater Country Park near Horsham.
A member of the public found one bird on Friday, July 30 near the Lennoxwood Lake. Subsequent tests at a veterinary practice confirmed it had been shot with a ball bearing.
There were also separate reports of a cygnet being found dead in the area from similar injuries.
Officers are liaising with the RSPCA and want witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
In particular, officers are investigating reports of two young men seen with a catapult or slingshot in the area in the past week which may be connected.
Anyone with information should report it to Sussex Police online [link] or call 101 and quote serial 883 of 30/07.
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