Ducks killed by catapult youths in Creekmoor Pond
Two Mallard ducks were killed after youths fired catapults at them in a Dorset pond as families and dog walkers passed by.
The birds died in Creekmoor Pond, Poole, last Tuesday afternoon but police have only just released details.
The group was spotted firing catapults at the ducks before fleeing the scene.
Pc Claire Dinsdale, wildlife crime officer, said it was currently nesting season and many adult birds were trying to feed their young or sit on nests.
"This is a very distressing, not to mention highly reckless, offence that took place when families and dog walkers were using the area," she said.
The men are all white and aged between 17 and 20-years-old.
One of the men was about 6ft (1.8m) tall and was wearing a turquoise blue T-shirt. Another man was in a white T-shirt.
Police are appealing for witnesses.