An investigation has been launched by the police following reports of a swan being deliberately attacked and killed near a river in West Wales. The incident occurred on Sunday, October 6, close to the River Teifi in the village of St Dogmaels near Cardigan. Dyfed-Powys Police’s wildlife accredited officers are currently looking into the incident and have cautioned that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty of harming protected birds.
In addition to the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the Countryside and Wildlife Act 1981 also prohibits the intentional killing, injuring, or capturing of any wild bird, including swans. According to the RSPCA, all wild birds, including swans, are safeguarded, and it is illegal to harm them without proper authorisation. The maximum penalty for such offences is six months imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.
While reports suggest a man was observed deliberately harming the swan, Dyfed-Powys Police has not confirmed this detail but has appealed for information regarding the incident. A police spokeswoman stated that the swan was discovered deceased on Sunday in St Dogmaels and urged the public to come forward with any relevant information.
The police reassured the community that incidents involving protected birds will be thoroughly investigated, and those responsible will face consequences for wildlife offences. Wildlife accredited officers are leading the inquiry, and enquiries continue. The Rural Crime Team is urging anyone with information to contact the police through various channels, including online reporting, email, social media, or phone.
The police provided the contact information for reporting tips, including calling 101, emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or reaching out to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via their website, quoting reference 24*854230. This highlights the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the incident and their commitment to pursuing justice in cases of wildlife crime.
As the investigation unfolds, the community awaits further developments on this concerning incident that has shocked residents in the area.