WILD birds have been killed after an attack at a pond in Hartley Wintney.

Police said an air rifle – or something similar – was used to shoot dead the majority of the birds. They are unsure how many people were involved.

The birds that died were described as two newborn geese, two wild ducks, a female Muscovy duck and one moorhen.

The incident took place between 7pm on Monday, May 23, and 1pm on Tuesday, May 24, at Causeway Pond near the junction of Fleet Road and the High Street.

PC Geoff Hill, of Farnborough police, said: “It is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 to kill, injure or take any wild bird.

“The duck pond is at the heart of the village, and has provided amusement for generations of families.

“It is disgusting that someone should curtail this by killing innocent and defenceless wildlife.”

Another duck was shot in the head, but was recovered by a member of the public and taken to the local vet. The bird is expected to make a full recovery and take to the water once more.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to contact PC Hill on 101, and quote police reference number 44160194045.