A goose has died after it was shot with a crossbow bolt in Hornchurch Country Park, yesterday.
The bird was taken to a wildlife hospital where x-rays revealed the bolt had gone through its pelvis and into the abdomen.
RSCPA Inspector Smith said: “This is a horrible injury and the goose must have been in a lot of pain.”
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act it is an offence to take, injure or kill a wild bird and punishment can include fines up to £5,000 as well as a prison sentence of up to six months.
The RSCPA said it is not known who carried out this attack or if it was done deliberately.
Anyone with information can call the charity in confidence on 0300 123 8018.
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