The investigation into the Croydon Cat Killer has taken a sinister turn after the suspect is believed to have turned their focus on the Queen’s swans. Six swans and cygnets have been found stabbed and beheaded in parks across south London, leading the RSPCA to set up 24-hour patrols.
Two mute swans were found dead in Birchmere Park last month while a third was found next to Southmere Lake. Park wardens say another three cygnets and a Canada goose have also died.
However, locals in Thamesmead, south east London, say at least ten swans have been decapitated. Inspectors have not ruled out that the Croydon Cat Killer could be behind the beheadings.
Inspector Nick Wheelhouse said: ‘Park wardens have informed me that they’re aware of the deaths of three swans, three cygnets and one Canada Goose so far in recent weeks.
‘It’s really concerning because the birds seem to have been stabbed and then beheaded, with their bodies left beside the water.
‘While it’s a serious animal welfare concern it’s also really upsetting for any of the park users who make the grisly find.
‘Peabody Neighbourhood wardens are now patrolling the area. And locals are so concerned about the birds that they’ve set up a patrol group to protect them, with various volunteers patrolling the area at night.
‘They are also arranging for warning notices to be placed around the parks and police have been made aware and have stepped up patrols.’
(Source: Metro)