A duck which sustained an injury after being shot with a catapult had to be put down by the RSPCA.

Eastern Daily Press: The duck had a piece of ammunition stuck in its leg. Picture: Courtesy of RSPCAThe duck had a piece of ammunition stuck in its leg. Picture: Courtesy of RSPCA (Image: Courtesy of RSPCA)

The injured male mallard was found at private fishing lakes in Stowbridge near Downham Market.

When the bird was taken to the RSPCA East Winch Wildlife Centre an x-ray showed he had a piece of ammunition - likely to have been fired from a catapult - wedged in his leg, causing a fracture.

Alison Charles, centre manager at East Winch, said the duck had to be put to sleep to prevent him suffering further.

She added: 'It's so sad to think that this poor duck had to suffer as a result of an injury which was most likely caused deliberately.

Eastern Daily Press: A mallard was injured after being shot with a catapult. Picture: David ThackerA mallard was injured after being shot with a catapult. Picture: David Thacker (Image: (c) copyright citizenside.com)

'It's awful to think that this bird would have suffered as a result of someone's cruel actions.

'We want to highlight this sad incident so that people can keep an eye out for wildlife in the area, although we hope that this was an isolated incident.'

All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is illegal - except under licence - to take, injure or kill wild birds or interfere with their nest or eggs. The maximum penalty, if found guilty, is six months in prison and/or a £5,000 fine.

The RSPCA is appealing for anyone who has any information about this incident to contact the RSPCA's inspectorate appeal line in confidence on 0300 123 8018.

The bird was caught by the RSPCA on Sunday, February 4.