Swans decapitated amid rising attacks against waterfowl in England and Wales

Police say 59% increase in crimes against swans, ducks and geese in 2020-22 may be ‘tip of the iceberg’

Nine decapitated swans are among the victims of a rising number of sadistic attacks against waterfowl, according to police data.

Police recorded a 59% increase in crimes against swans, ducks and geese from 2020 to 2022. The crimes ranged from fireworks and BB guns being shot into duck ponds to swans and geese being strangled and beheaded.