Swans ‘stabbed and beheaded’

Six swans including three cygnets are believed to have been stabbed and then beheaded before their mutilated bodies were dumped in south London parks.

Two mute swans were found beheaded in Birchmere Park in November and another swan was also killed in Southmere Lake, the RSPCA said as it launched an investigation.

Concerned local residents have set up patrols after the “grisly finds” in Thamesmead in the last month.

RSPCA Insp Nick Wheelhouse said: “Park wardens [are] aware of the deaths of three swans, three cygnets and one Canada goose so far in recent weeks. The birds seem to have been stabbed and then beheaded, with their bodies left beside the water.”

All wild mute swans in Britain are the property of the Crown. It is an offence to kill one, punishable by up to six months in prison and/or a fine of up to £5,000.