Mystery surrounds the discovery of a number of dead swans and ducks at a Welsh beauty spot which appear to have been “butchered” to death. The alarming spate of incidents has taken place at ponds and lakes in one area of Carmarthenshire.

In recent months, carcasses of mute swans and wild ducks have been found in areas along the Millennium Coastal Path, which stretches between Pembrey and Llanelli. Officers from Carmarthenshire Council’s outdoor recreation service said they were becoming “increasingly concerned” with the number of deaths, and were working with Dyfed-Powys Police’s rural crime team and Natural Resources Wales to investigate.

While predators such as foxes are known to kill swans and ducks, officers believe the birds have been “butchered”, suggesting that a person or persons may be responsible for the deaths, despite the fact that killing them would be considered illegal. You can keep up to date with the latest Carmarthenshire news by signing up to the local newsletter here.

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As well as animal cruelty laws set out in the Animal Welfare Act 2006, the Countryside and Wildlife Act 1981 makes it an offence to intentionally kill, injure, or take any wild bird.” According to Carmarthenshire Council, meanwhile, mute swans are protected from being harmed while wild ducks are only allowed to be harvested where permitted - as such all wildlife on council property is protected from disturbance or harm. Want less ads? Download WalesOnline’s Premium app on Apple or Android.

The council has now asked anyone with information about the deaths of swans or ducks in the Millennium Coastal Path area to contact Dyfed-Powys Police, either online, by e-mailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk or by calling 101. Council cabinet member, Councillor Hazel Evans, said: The killing of wildlife on county council property is a grave crime which we will investigate fully with our partners and I would urge members of the public to report any suspicious activity to the police at once.”

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