VOLUNTEERS working to rehabilitate Surrey wildlife after “devastating” catapult attacks say tighter legislation is urgently needed to tackle criminality.
In the spring, Deputy Commissioner Ellie Vesey-Thompson urged ministers to give police greater powers to crack down on those who use catapults as weapons.
Since publishing her letter, which can be read here, she has received support from two swan rescues and the National Rural Crime Network (NRCN). Tim Passmore, chair of the NRCN, said it is time to send a “clear message”.
Meanwhile, on visits to the Shepperton Swan Sanctuary in Spelthorne, Ellie has discussed the issue further with those who care for wounded birds.
The Deputy wants catapults to be treated similarly to knives – putting the onus on any carrier to prove they have a good reason to carry such a weapon, rather than the police to have evidence of unlawful intention.
Deputy’s call
This week, the BBC is airing a documentary on the harms caused by catapult use.
Danni Rogers, who gives his time to rescuing birds for the Shepperton Swan Sanctuary, launched a petition on the issue. It received more than 20,000 signatures.
He told Ellie: “Swans, geese, ducks and domestic animals including cats are being shot and killed in Surrey.
“I was called to a rescue recently that involved a family of 10 swans – mum and dad and eight cygnets. On the first occasion, one of the swans had fishing line around its leg, which I quickly resolved before spending some time feeding the family.
“The following day, I was called again as one of the cygnets had been found dead just 50 feet away. It had been shot in the head, suffering a high-velocity, single-impact injury.
“It’s absolutely devastating to attend incidents like these.”
Ellie said: “Just one attack is too many, but by mid-summer, the Shepperton Swan Sanctuary had rescued around 30 wounded birds, and even more are believed to have been killed by catapults.
“There can be a misconception that what we’re talking about is a stick fitted with an elastic band. Catapults can actually be very high-powered, accurate weapons, which are cheap and easy to buy online.
“For less than £20, anyone can purchase a large catapult with a pistol grip handle, capable of firing with a high degree of accuracy, as well as 100 ball bearings.
“Abhorrent”
“Using a catapult to target wildlife and property is not only unacceptable; it’s abhorrent.
“I have asked the Government to look at changing the legislation surrounding the carrying of catapults to bring it in line with laws around carrying knives.
“This would recognise the significant damage these weapons could cause.
“I am determined to continue campaigning for change. This issue matters to Surrey’s residents, and it matters to Surrey Police.”