Geese injured in Yateley Green
Three youths had been seen using a catapult to target wildlife
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary is appealing for information after two Egyptian geese were found injured in a pond at Yateley Green.
Officers were called following reports that three youths had been seen using a catapult to target wildlife between 7pm and 7.30pm on Saturday, 26 July. The injured birds were later located and transported to The Swan Sanctuary in Shepperton for treatment.
Since the incident, police have been conducting enquiries and patrolling the area. They are now calling on members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or seen anything suspicious to come forward.
A spokesperson for the force said: “Were you in the area at the time? Did you witness any suspicious behaviour or the incident itself? Do you have any video or images that could assist our investigation?”
Police have also issued a reminder that it is a criminal offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to harm, kill, or take wild birds. Damaging or destroying nests is also prohibited under the law.
The force is encouraging anyone who sees suspicious behaviour involving wildlife, including the use of catapults, to report it immediately.
“This type of behaviour is not only cruel but illegal,” officers said. “We are committed to protecting local wildlife and holding those responsible for such offences to account.”