A swan has been shot and two others poisoned at Virginia Lake, prompting a call for people to report suspicious activity.
"It is a real concern that someone has shot and killed a swan in a public reserve," Wanganui District Council property manager Rowan McGregor said.
The dead swan was found on Tuesday and was reported to police. "Virginia Lake is a very well-used public place, so discharging a firearm in that area puts people at risk," Mr McGregor said.
"It appears that the swans are being targeted, with two being poisoned last week.
"They were in a bad state and were taken to Bird Rescue, where they are recovering. Tests done by Massey University indicate that the birds were intentionally poisoned."