Swan killed and has head removed in city park
BBCPolice have appealed for information after a swan was killed and its head removed in a Leeds park.
The animal was found in Roundhay Park on Monday, close to the lake, a spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said.
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, it is a criminal offence to kill a swan in the UK.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: "We know how much people love seeing these popular birds in their local community and this incident will be very upsetting for everyone who enjoys coming to this park."
They added: "Without seeing the swan's body it is difficult to say with certainty if this bird's death is suspicious or the result of other causes, such as natural predation."
The RSPCA said it received 22 reports of cruelty in West Yorkshire in summer 2025, when reports reached a five-year high at national level.
Swans were among the most commonly targeted animals, along with pigeons, corvids, gulls and ducks.
Police appealed for anyone with information about the swan's death to get in touch.
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