Five cygnets shot with suspected catapult as two left seriously injured
Police are appealing for information after five cygnets were shot on a canal in Rotherham, leaving two of the young swans in a serious condition.
The cygnets are understood to have been targeted on the Chesterfield Canal around Browns Lock between 7pm on Saturday (Sep 5) and 2pm on Sunday (Sep 6).
All five young swans suffered injuries and were taken to a swan rescue for treatment.
Three of the cygnets are recovering well, but two remain in a serious condition.
Initial police enquiries have led officers to believe the cygnets were shot at using a catapult and ball bearing.
Police have launched an appeal for anyone who witnessed the incident, saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area during that period or has information which could assist the investigation to come forward.
A spokesperson for the force said: “Anyone with information can contact police online, via live chat or by calling 101, quoting incident number 705 of September 6, 2026.”