MEMBERS of the public have expressed their outrage at the slaughter of a number of geese in Belhus Park.
Almost a year to the day since a family of swans were shot to death, the geese have also been targeted by a sick individual or individuals.
It is understood that the slaughter occurred on Monday afternoon.
A spokesperson for South Essex Wildlife Hospital said: "When a frantic call for help came in from a ranger at Belhus Park, one of our volunteers was quickly on scene to try and help save a family of geese that had been shot with a catapult.
"One adult and one gosling were already dead. The other adult and youngster were still alive but on examination at the hospital could not be saved. The adult had a severe head injury and the gosling had a fractured spine.
"It was youngsters that were seen to be responsible for this consistent with the fact their choice of ammunition was glass marbles !
"The police were informed and everyone involved with this incident was extremely distressed".
For further details go to https://southessexwildlife.org
