Members of the public are being urged to report incidents of animals being attacked at local wildlife spots.
The call from the Scottish SPCA came after reports of swans and other animals being targeted by children and teenagers on a regular basis at the Lanthorn Pond in Dedridge, Livingston.
Nesting ducks are having their eggs smashed and missiles are being thrown at the pond’s wildlife. Recently two youths were witnessed attacking a swan with sticks as it walked on the path.
Scottish SPCA head of innovation and strategic relations, Gilly Mendes Ferreira, said: “We’re very concerned to hear that young people have been spotted harming swans and other wildlife in and around Lanthorn Pond in Livingston. We know from the work our Animal Guardians programme does with young people at risk of harming, or who have harmed, an animal that children can mistreat animals for a variety of reasons.
"Often this has more to do with not knowing what they are doing is hurtful, or having trouble regulating their emotions and behaviour, rather than from an intent to cause harm. Many people don’t always recognise that when a young person shows behaviour towards an animal that is a cause of concern it can also act as an early indicator that something else may be wrong in that young person’s life and specialist support may be required.
"We hope that the young people involved in this incident speak to an appropriate adult who can give them the support they need. We would also encourage any adult who is aware of a young person needing help to refer them to our Animal Guardians programme if required for further support. If anyone finds an animal in distress they should call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”
Although the nearby Lanthorn Community Complex is closed the CCTV surrounding the building and pond area is fully operational 24/7.
Police officers are encouraging people witnessing acts of cruelty to get in touch, giving details of the date and time the incident took place. You can call Police Scotland on 101.
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