11/09/2026
Protecting waterfowl and wildlife from catapults 🦢
This week our officers have responded to reports of cygnets being shot at and injured.
We have also seen neighbouring police forces suffer the same tragic events.
As ‘Rural Crime Week’ continues across the country, we are urging everyone to be vigilant and report suspicious activity to us.
Killing and injuring wild birds is illegal and is covered by The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This legislation makes it an offence to kill, injure or take any wild bird or take, damage or destroy the nest of a wild bird.
Anyone found guilty of these offences can be sentenced to six months in prison and face a fine of up to £5000.
Research highlights that those involved in using a catapult and ball bearings to injure animals are more likely to be youths- parents, we urge you to speak to your children if you suspect they are involved in this criminality or own equipment.
Carrying a catapult and ball bearings is not harmless fun, it can be deemed as an offensive weapon if officers suspect they are being used to injured people, animals or damage property.
National Operation Lakeside is aimed at protecting birds and wildlife from cruel sports and more information about the work, getting involved and reporting can be found here- https://orlo.uk/FTA0r
In an emergency call 999, all other reports of information can be given online or via live chat.
