Cygnet shot and wounded on canal near Silsden

A CYGNET has been found shot and wounded on the Leeds and Liverpool canal near Silsden.

The RSPCA, and Yorkshire Swan Rescue Hospital, were alerted after a member of the public spotted the bird in a 'lethargic' condition close to Brunthwaite Swing Bridge.

Adam Dickinson, an RSPCA inspector, managed to hook the bird using a 'reach-and-rescue' pole and get it to the canal towpath. It was bleeding from a circular wound to the side of its head. Although an x-ray did not show any evidence of a pellet having penetrated, it is believed the cygnet was shot by an air rifle.