Police have issued a warning after a group of young males were reportedly seen using a catapult to target ducks in Devizes.
Wiltshire Police said it had recently received concerning reports about the use of a catapult at The Crammer, a pond on Estcourt Street.
A member of the public reported seeing a group of young males using the weapon and appearing to target ducks resting on the water.
Officers have now reminded residents about the laws surrounding catapults and slingshots following the incident.
While catapults are legal to own and purchase in the UK, carrying one in public without a lawful reason could result in prosecution if it is considered an offensive weapon.
Police said using a catapult to harm wildlife or damage property could also amount to a criminal offence.
Potential offences could fall under animal welfare legislation, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, the Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996 or criminal damage laws.
A catapult carried openly or without a clear lawful excuse could also be seized by police and may result in prosecution.
Wiltshire Police has urged parents and guardians to be aware of where their children are and what they are doing, particularly during the school holidays.
Anyone who witnesses somebody actively using a catapult to harm wildlife or put people at risk should call 999.
Non-emergency incidents and information can be reported through the Wiltshire Police website.
