A BLOODTHIRSTY airgun thug who killed a swan by shooting it 16 times could be jailed for up to six months if brought to justice.

The brutal slaying in Sankey Valley, Blackbrook – reported in last week’s Star – sparked anger and disgust among wildlife lovers.

A walker discovered the dead bird at the nature trail on Sunday, October 13 and park rangers said it had suffered multiple airgun pellet wounds.

Killing or injuring a wild swan is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, with the maximum punishment a six-month jail sentence and a £5,000 fine.

In April a swan was attacked and killed by a dog at Carr Mill Dam and in May ducks, grebes and terns were shot at the dam and left to die in agony.

Visitors to the dam were faced with the sight of the bodies of birds floating in the water.

News of the latest killing drew an angry response from Star readers.

Anthony Wilson posted online: “So sad and shocked once more to read about this. Those responsible are quite simply sick individuals in every sense.

“Why on earth would any person even contemplate shooting a defenceless swan? This wildlife crime is happening all too often in St Helens in recent years and months and it’s not being taken seriously enough. Surely a change of law is needed to clamp down on air gun ownership.”

Marcus added: “I’ve been following this family of swans for two years – I’m a photographer. I can’t believe how sick some people are and I hope they’re found and jailed.”

Cllr Seve Gomez-Aspron, cabinet member for the environment, said: “How anyone can do such a dreadful thing is beyond belief.

“This has been very upsetting for all concerned and I hope the culprit is found and dealt with.”

The matter is being investigated by Merseyside Police, the RSPCA and the council.