FEARS have been raised about the number of swans being shot on the River Thames ahead of this year’s census.

This year’s swan upping, a four-day census to round up, mark, weigh, health check and release mute swans on the River Thames, will finish in Abingdon on July 24.

The Queen’s Swan Marker, David Barber, told the official website of The British Monarch there was a “continuing increase” in the number of birds killed along the river by shootings.

Mr Barber said: “These senseless shootings cause horrific injuries and often death, with the injured swans and cygnets sometimes taking days or even weeks to die if they are not discovered soon after being shot.

“The majority of members of the public are very vigilant and have reported shot swans when they have discovered them, enabling the fortunate ones to be rescued and saved with veterinary intervention.

“In view of these continuing deplorable incidents, education remains a significant aspect of swan upping.”

Councillor and chairman of Vale of White Horse District Council Mike Badcock, who represents the Abingdon Caldecott ward, said: “Anybody shooting swans should be locked up. They are a protected wild bird.”