A swan has died after being shot while trying to protect her nest.
The swan was rushed to a vets after being found with head injuries following the attack in Stadt Moers Park.
But experts were unable to save her.
The RSPCA was called to the park, in Knowsley, on Tuesday following reports of the shooting.
Pictures showed the mother swan with a bloodied head as she was pulled from a lake at the park by an animal welfare officer.
Four pellets were removed from the bird.
The RSPCA tweeted last night to say the swan "had been shot four times and left to die, whilst trying to protect its nest."
The charity added: "The swan was rushed to the vets, but its injuries were too severe and so euthanasia was the kindest option."
The incident has caused disgust among the local community, with the swan having proved popular among walkers watching as she paid close watch over her eggs.
People described the incident as "tragic" and "heartbreaking" as they responded to the tweet, while on Facebook it was branded "cruel" and "despicable".
Anyone with information can contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999
