A swan whose companion was shot dead has found a new mate, it has been confirmed.

As reported in the Echo, a swan was found lifeless in the water off Weston Parade with an air rifle pellet wound to its neck.

The remaining swan was taken in by Swan Support. However, after taking some time to adjust to his new surroundings, the charity said that the swan had “taken a shine to one of the ladies in our care”.

The charity said they had taken the swan from his home in order to protect him from being targeted by another attacker.

A charity spokesperson told the BBC: “Despite it being his home, his safety was paramount and our fear was that he could too be targeted.

“The local community, like us, are both angry and heartbroken and want to see this properly investigated, the offender caught and justice served.

“At times we feel like giving up and these types of rescues go beyond what any of us as volunteers should have to see.

“But we must continue for the sake of all the others and hope that one day in the very near future something changes.”

Wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and intentionally killing wild bird is a criminal offence punishable with up to six months in jail and an unlimited fine.

Recently a fundraiser was launched by residents of Weston Parade in an appeal to find the swan’s killer.

As reported, The fundraiser is offering a £2,000 reward for any information that leads to the arrest of those responsible for shooting the wild bird.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary is investigating and has urged anyone with information to come forward.