Scottish SPCA launches investigation after ‘defenceless’ duck shot with crossbow bolt

The animal welfare charity said the wounded bird had to be put to sleep due to the severity of its injuries.
By Conor Marlborough
Published 30th Jun 2020, 11:54 BST
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The Scottish SPCA has launched an investigation after a “defenceless” duck was found still alive with a crossbow bolt through its body in Bonnybridge in Falkirk.

The animal welfare charity has appealed for information from the public, after the stricken bird was spotted at 3:50pm on June 27 on the canal alongside the B816.

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They said the bird’s injuries were so severe that it had to be euthanised, adding that they were working with Police Scotland to find the person responsible.

The Scottish SPCA has launched an investigation after a “defenceless” duck was found still alive with a crossbow bolt through its body in Bonnybridge in Fife.The Scottish SPCA has launched an investigation after a “defenceless” duck was found still alive with a crossbow bolt through its body in Bonnybridge in Fife.
The Scottish SPCA has launched an investigation after a “defenceless” duck was found still alive with a crossbow bolt through its body in Bonnybridge in Fife.

In Scotland it is a criminal offence to injure or kill any bird, including ducks.

Scottish SPCA inspector Andrew Gray said, “A passer-by alerted us to the duck, which was in considerable distress and dragging itself in and out of the water as it was unable to walk.

“The duck was rushed to a local vet to be examined but sadly the bird’s injuries were too extensive and the difficult decision was made to put it to sleep.

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“We are unsure of the circumstances surrounding the arrow (sic) but we are keen to find the person or persons responsible.”

Constable Laura Robertson, Forth Valley Wildlife Officer, said: "Around 3.50pm on Saturday, 27 June, we received a report of a duck having been shot with a crossbow on the canal on the B816, in Bonnybridge.

“Enquiries are ongoing and we are asking anyone with information to contact the Scottish SPCA or to call police on 101, quoting reference number 2684 of 27 June.

“This was a completely reckless and inconsiderate act on a defenceless animal and we are urging members of the public with information in connection to come forward."

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The Scottish SPCA animal helpline is open seven days a week from 7am until 9pm. Calls can be made completely confidentially on 03000 999 999.

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