RSPCA in Halstead duck attack investigation
The RSPCA is investigating claims that a group of teenagers attacked several ducks near an Essex river.
The charity said a "small crowd" was reported near the bridge in Chapel Street, Halstead, last Friday.
One of the ducks was allegedly killed by a young person stamping on its head, an RSPCA spokeswoman said.
Emily Cheeseman, of the RSPCA, said if the reports were true there was "absolutely no excuse for treating a live animal in such a brutal" way.
"We are very disturbed to hear about these attacks and ask anyone with any information to come forward and let us know," she said.
The alleged attacks on the ducks were discussed on social media websites, which led to a number of complaints to the RSPCA.