AN appeal for information has been issued this week after several birds - including two herons - were shot at a beauty spot.
A duck was found dead in the waters of Royston Canal, nearby the Cronkhill Lane section, last week before the first heron was also found.
A second heron - which did not die - was hit in its wing and has been seen struggling to fly around the area because of its injuries.
John Clare, from the Royston Canal Club, said: “It’s bad enough with the duck, but somehow it’s even worse when they’re targeting herons.
“It is fantastic that we have them on the canal as it shows how rich the area is for wildlife, so whoever is responsible needs to be stopped.”
The canal had issues with a series of shootings last year which resulted in a swan being fatally wounded. It was a policing priority for the Royston-based neighbourhood team for several months and more patrols have been promised in light of the new incidents.
“We didn’t get a lot of patrols last time round - fishermen are on the water at all times of the day and they didn’t notice many - so hopefully it’ll be different now,” John said.
“The police did eventually get in touch about the latest shootings and confirmed more officers will be walking along the stretch where they have occurred.
“We know people are shooting in the fields nearby but it’s prohibited along the canal. There’s no excuse as they are not allowed to do it.
“So many positive things have been done. It’s disabled-friendly, there are new fishing platforms, fish stocks have been increased, the water is clean and the natural wildlife is flourishing, so it has been a big set-back.
“We shouldn’t have to put up with it so we are all hopeful that police patrols will deter incidents such as shootings.”
A spokesman from the RSPB told the Chronicle that anyone caught shooting herons could face a prison sentence.
“Unfortunately, wild birds of prey are continually in danger from illegal shooting,” he added. “Fish-eating birds - particularly herons - are deliberately targeted and it continues to be a problem, particularly in areas where commercial fisheries are situated.
“In Britain the heron is protected at all times under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, with fines or prison sentences available for anyone killing or attempting to kill.
“Anyone who has witnessed a crime, or if they are aware of illegal activity, can contact the RSPB investigation team by visiting rspb.org.uk and fill out an incident form which we will look into.”
