Duck named after Jemima Puddle Duck shot in air gun attack in Newton Street, Newark

The RSPCA has launched an investigation after a duck was shot in an air gun attack.

A member of the public came across the duck last week in Newton Street, Newark, when she noticed the bird was struggling to walk.

She alerted the RSPCA and animal collection officer (ACO) Sharon Knight was called to the scene and could see the duck was unable to stand due to a leg injury.

The duck, named Jemima, was taken to the vet for treatment.

Sharon said: “I believe the bird was someone’s pet as she had had her wings clipped so she was literally a sitting duck when she was shot as she couldn’t get away.

“Veterinary staff took the air -gun pellet out of her leg and she is now having some rest and rehabilitation at an RSPCA centre where she has been named after Jemima Puddle Duck.

“It is very distressing to think that people take pleasure in causing harm to defenceless birds.

“These are deliberate acts of cruelty and I would appeal to people’s conscience not to commit these offences. I am appealing for anyone with information as to who shot the duck to get in touch.”

“The sanctions for causing unnecessary suffering to an animal can be up to six months in prison and/or an unlimited fine if found guilty under the Animal Welfare Act."

In the meantime Sharon is trying to trace the owner of the duck and if they cannot be found the pet will be put up for rehoming once she has fully recovered.