Hunt for 'duck killers'

Two ducks and their ducklings have died, according to reports, after apparently being used as target practice for catapults.

The dead and injured birds were discovered at The Fleet in Sheerness over the weekend.

Sheerness Town Council has published an impassioned plea for the cruelty to stop as police launched an appeal to track down two boys aged between 12 and 14 who were seen in the area.

Duck family on The Fleet. Picture: Sheerness Town Council

The town council wrote: "These innocent animals have suffered horrific and completely unnecessary deaths. Based on the injuries sustained, it is believed that catapults may have been used.

"This level of cruelty is sickening. It is unacceptable, it is criminal, and it will not be tolerated."

It said the council was taking immediate action by installing CCTV in the area.

It added: "We are also working with Kent Police and other partner agencies to put measures in place to tackle this behaviour and protect the wildlife at The Fleet for the future.

"We want to be absolutely clear; anyone responsible for these acts should expect to face the consequences of their actions."

A catapult and stones previously seized by police. Picture: Kent Police

It went on: "If you think killing animals is amusing, entertaining, or somehow justified, then you need to take a long, hard look at yourself. The deliberate targeting of defenceless wildlife is not a prank. It is not a game. It is an act of cruelty."

It warned: "Parents also have a responsibility. If you are aware of this behaviour and choose to ignore it, excuse it, or turn a blind eye to it, you should seriously reflect on the example you are setting. Communities have a right to expect better.

"We are asking the public to remain vigilant. If you witness anyone attacking wildlife, using catapults, or engaging in any act of animal cruelty, call 999 immediately. Do not assume someone else has reported it.

"Our community should be a safe place for people and wildlife alike. The senseless killing of defenceless animals has no place in Sheerness.

"Enough is enough."

More catapults seized by police

Kent Police has launched an appeal for information.

They say two ducks were "found deceased" and "a pair of ducklings were injured" near the waterway along Hawthorn Avenue.

Officers visited the site at 11.30am on Saturday (May 30).

A spokesman said: "Steps were taken to safeguard remaining wildfowl and an investigation was commenced that included the examination of available CCTV footage."

Inspector Julia Bassindale said: "We suspect the birds were injured by a catapult and officers are working to identify those responsible.

A pigeon shot by a catapult in a separate incident at Minster

"Local enquiries have been completed and we want to speak to two boys who were seen in the area at the time.

"They are described as being aged between 12 to 14 with dark hair and were wearing shorts and grey t-shirts."

Witnesses who have not yet spoken to the police and anyone with information that may assist should contact the appeal line on 01795 419119, quoting reference 46/86974/26.

Information can also be left with Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form.