A goose was found dead with a suspected gunshot wound at Jubilee Lake Nature Reserve in Royal Wootton Bassett on 19 May. The Town Council confirmed the bird had a single puncture wound consistent with a shooting.
Authorities, including the council, the RSPCA, and police, are investigating and reviewing CCTV footage from around the lake to identify the person responsible for the suspected shooting.
The council has reported the case to the police, prompting a thorough investigation. Surveillance footage from the nature reserve is being examined as part of the inquiry.
RSPCA experts have joined the investigation, providing advice especially due to the potential presence of goslings in the area. The council stressed the importance of safeguarding local wildlife following the incident.
The council highlighted that deliberately harming wild birds is illegal without a licence. Offenders face penalties of up to six months’ imprisonment.
A council spokesperson described the act as “sickening and completely unacceptable,” reflecting the shock and anger felt by residents over the cruel attack.
Originally published by UKNIP.
