Swan dies after being shot at beauty spot, say police

A swan has died at a beauty spot after being shot at with ball bearings, according to police.

South Wales Police said it was aware a bird had died following an incident at Hendre Lakes in the St Mellons area of Cardiff on Monday.

"It is understood that the swan had been shot at with ball bearings," the force said.

The local neighbourhood policing team is patrolling the area and looking to identify those involved.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact the force.

Killing swans is illegal in the UK.

In a tradition dating back to the 12th Century, the British Monarch retains the right to claim ownership of unmarked, free-roaming native mute swans.

They are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 which states it is a criminal offence to intentionally injure, take, or kill a wild swan.