Police Slam Pranksters Who Put Sock Over Swan’s Head

Police have hit out against the pranksters who put a sock over a swan's head, arguing it could have died if someone hadn't intervened.

The bird was spotted in the Coulson Road area of Lincoln, UK last weekend when someone thought there was something not quite right about the bird.

The normally all-white animal had a black head and partially black neck and, upon closer inspection, it was revealed to be a sock rather than a peculiar feather colour.

Authorities believe the sock was deliberately placed onto the swan's head due to how far down the garment was on the animal's body. They've ruled out the swan doing this to itself.

Lincolnshire Police investigating officer PC Llewellyn said in a statement: "Any type of animal cruelty will not be tolerated and we will carry out a full investigation into this incident. We work with wildlife organisations who report these incidents to us so we can investigate.

"We do not believe that this was accidental. Had the Swan rescue not intervened, the Swan would have either starved or potentially suffocated.

"We would like to hear from anyone who can assist us with our investigation or anyone who may have seen anyone around the swan in the water in the days leading up to May 2."

Local police will be working with the RSPCA in their investigation.

They've warned they will stop at nothing to ensure justice is served.

RSPCA Inspector Kate Burris said: "The consequences of this mindless prank could have resulted in this poor swan suffering over a long period of time and ultimately ended in their death.

"Given that this is the breeding and nesting season at the moment this could have also resulted in suffering and sadly death for any dependent offspring."

People convicted of killing, injuring or taking wild birds can expect jail time of up to six months or and 'unlimited fine'.

Swans are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Featured Image Credit: Lincolnshire Police

Topics: UK News, News, Animals

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie is a Trending Journalist at LADbible. His first job was as a newsreader and journalist at the award winning Sydney radio station, Macquarie Radio. He was solely responsible for the content broadcast on multiple stations across Australia when the MH17, Germanwings and AirAsia disasters unfolded. Stewart has covered the conflict in Syria for LADbible, interviewing a doctor on the front line, and has contributed to the hugely successful UOKM8 campaign.

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