A swan has been shot and killed with a crossbow in a "cruel and mindless" attack.

The bird was found with a wound to the back of its head on Wednesday, February 21.

It was discovered lying on a walkway along the shore between Kincardine Bridge and Clackmannanshire.

The Scottish SPCA is now investigating the incident.

Inspector Robyn Gray said, "The swan was discovered along the shore between Clackmannanshire and Kincardine Bridge with a wound to the head.

"Post mortem results revealed the swan was likely shot with a crossbow.

"We aren't sure how the swan came to be on the shore. The body may have been dumped there or could have been washed ashore."

He continued: "We believe this was a cruel and mindless attack and this sort of animal cruelty is completely unacceptable.

"We are urging people with any information to contact our animal helpline in an effort to trace whoever is responsible."

Anyone with information has been asked to contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.