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Six Queen's swans and cygnets found stabbed and beheaded in London parks

The swans were found dead next to the water in the past few weeks: PA Archive/PA Images
The swans were found dead next to the water in the past few weeks: PA Archive/PA Images

A probe has been launched after six swans and cygnets were found stabbed and beheaded in south London parks.

The RSPCA has set up 24-hour patrols at parks in Thamesmead after a string of horrifying discoveries in recent weeks.

Last month two mute swans were found killed and beheaded in Birchmere Park and another swan was found mutilated next to Southmere Lake.

Three cygnets, or baby swans, and a Canada goose have also been killed, park wardens said.

“It’s really concerning because the birds seem to have been stabbed and then beheaded with their bodies left beside the water,” said RSPCA inspector Nick Wheelhouse.

The RSPCA made the grisly discovery at Southmere Lake. (RSPCA)
The RSPCA made the grisly discovery at Southmere Lake. (RSPCA)

“While it’s a serious animal welfare concern it’s also really upsetting for any of the park users who make the grisly find.”

It is illegal to kill mute swans, which are protected and under the Queen’s royal prerogative.

Anyone caught deliberately trying to injure a wild bird, or kill or take it without a licence, can face up to six months in prison and/or a fine of up to £5,000 if found guilty under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Attacks on birds in London are not unprecedented. In February, 12 swans were shot on the banks of the River Thames in Windsor while last year a man killed a duck by wringing its neck in Richmond.

Inspector Wheelhouse is appealing for any information to contact the RSPCA appeal line on 0300 123 9018 and leave a message for him.

He said: “Peabody Neighbourhood wardens are now patrolling the area. And locals are so concerned about the birds that they’ve set up a patrol group to protect them, with various volunteers patrolling the area at night.

“They are also arranging for warning notices to be placed around the parks and police have been made aware and have stepped up patrols.”