We are appealing for witnesses and information after a dead Canada goose and an injured swan were located at Fleet Pond.

Officers were called at 11.16am on 10 May by a member of the public who had found the birds. It was reported that the swan had been struck with a ball bearing. The Swan Sanctuary were notified and collected the injured bird.

It was also reported that three white males, aged in their late teens to early 20s, were spotted near the pond at around 7.30pm on 9 May. One of the group reportedly used a sling shot to hit a pigeon, which injured the bird.

We also received a report that at 6.15pm on 2 May, two teenage boys and a teenage girl were seen near the pond and one of the group used a catapult.

At this time, it is unclear whether all, if any, of the incidents are connected.

Officers are taking these reports extremely seriously and would like witnesses to come forward. Were you in the area during the times mentioned above? Did you witness and suspicious behaviour or the incidents?

Hart Police Sergeant, Geoff Hill, said: “We appreciate incidents of this nature have a huge impact on local communities and we want to reassure people that we are taking these reports seriously.

“Intentionally harming defenceless birds and wildlife is shocking and it simply won’t be tolerated. We are carrying out enquiries and we are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed anything or has any information that may help us identify those involved.

“We would like to take this opportunity to remind people that it is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to kill, harm, or take a wild bird. It is also an offence to take, damage or destroy the nest of a wild bird.

“We would also urge anyone with information about crimes against wildlife, including individuals acting suspiciously around wild birds or active nests, or anyone carrying or using catapults in their local area to please report this to police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101, quoting 44250203291. Or you can submit information online via our website at https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/