Fears are growing over a suspected “serial killer” that is responsible for several animal decapitations and drownings taking place at a “lake of horror” in southeast London.
Wildlife rescuer Carly Ahlen believes the gruesome deaths of swans and foxes at Southmere Lake, Thamesmead can only have been done by a human.
So far Carly has counted four animals as victims of vile violence in the area, reports The Star.
Three swans were found bludgeoned and bloodied with their heads missing, while a fox was shot and drowned the publication said.
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After she was warned of the horrific scenes, Carly decided to visit the lake and patrol it herself – she then found the corpses and took photos as evidence.
She said: “I am really angry. Swans are protected so this is a real big wildlife crime. Four animals getting killed, it is like a serial killer.
“I deal with wildlife crimes almost every day but nothing could have prepared me for this. It was even more shocking knowing that a human had done this.
“From my experience, this was not done by an animal, they are clean cuts to the head.
“I love swans terribly and it is devastating that the wildlife is being treated and decimated in this way. For someone to do this is shocking. I cannot understand why someone would need to kill an animal that cannot defend itself.”
Swans swimming in London
The attacks were first reported at the start of December but appear to be ongoing.
The Met has been made aware of the situation and the RSPCA has said it is speaking to people who made the shocking discoveries.
Carly’s own Gabo Wildlife foundation plans to catch the culprit or culprits responsible and have fitted a security camera at the lake.
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Carly added: “It is notorious in this area. It is the lake of horror.
“People go there to interact with nature instead they are seeing this. I cannot imagine the people who may have seen this walking around there.
“The wildlife killings are becoming more frequent and gruesome, when I pulled out the fox from the lake and took his body to examine, I could see the terror etched on his face.
“I knew from my experience that this fox had been tortured, the two head wounds, I felt did not kill him instantly, but caused him great distress and had probably drowned after being thrown into the lake.”
An RSPCA spokesperson said: “It is concerning to hear reports of dead wild animals found at Southmere Lake, and we are in contact with those who made the upsetting discoveries.
“We urge anyone with information to contact us on 0300 1234 999. They can also contact the police who have wildlife crime officers.”
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