Duck killed by pellet gunshot at Carrickfergus nature reserve

Police have launched an investigation after the dead bird was discovered on Monday evening at the Mill Ponds close to the centre of the Co Antrim town.

Appealing for anyone with information to come forward, Councillor Andrew Wilson said: “It’s shocking that a duck has been killed by what appears to be a pellet gun shot at the Mill Ponds, Carrickfergus. Animal cruelty is not acceptable.

“Whoever did this has a sick and depraved idea of what’s right or wrong.

“The bottom line is someone knows who did this and I am sure it is weighing heavily on their conscience. Speak out against animal cruelty if you know who was behind this.”

Mr Wilson, who is also a member of the Policing and Community Safety Partnership, added: “The issue has been referred to the PSNI by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, and I thank the council officers for their swift action in this distressing case.

“The Parks & Open Spaces manager has requested additional police patrols to check the area when they are out.

“Council staff have also been asked to check the site periodically throughout the day.”

Police confirmed the incident is under investigation,

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Police received a report that a duck had been shot with a pellet gun in the Mill Ponds area of Carrickfergus. It is believed this took place on Monday night (11th May).

“Anyone with any information on this incident is encouraged to contact police on 101 quoting reference 381 12/05/20. Alternatively information can be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

A decade ago there was a similar incident at the Mill Ponds. In June 2010, a swan was killed by a single crossbow shot to its neck.

Declared a LNR in March 2015, the route is popular with walkers and is close to recreation and leisure facilities.

The ponds are fringed with vegetation and, according to council, support a wide variety of bird life, including common species of ducks and mute swans, greylag geese, oystercatcher, snipe, kingfisher, swallows and garden birds.

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