The mutilated body of a swan has been found on train tracks sparking a police appeal.

The body of the animal, which is a protected species and legally property of The Crown, was found by rail workers near Tottenham Hale station on Saturday June 27.

Police say the injuries to the swan appear to have been a deliberate attempt to kill for meat.

An investigation has been launched by British Transport Police in conjunction with the RSPB.

BTP wildlife crime officer, PC Stewart Galbraith, said: “The dead swan was found in shrubbery by the train tracks close to the maintenance gate on Coppermill Lane, just south of Tottenham Hale station.

“It had been badly mutilated it what appears to be a deliberate attempt to kill for meat. It was clearly the work of a person with experience of butchery and we are appealing for anyone with information to come forward to police.

“This was a very distressing incident in which a protected bird was needlessly killed. We are working hard to find those responsible and would appeal for the public to assist us with any information which could help the investigation.”

Killing a swan can carry a prison sentence or a fine of up to £5,000.

RSPB officer, Tim Webb said: “The mutilation of a swan may sound trivial against the backdrop of our daily news bulletins detailing acts of terrorism, murder and violence, but this is an appalling crime.

“It’s an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, it is also offensive to our culture, as swans epitomise grace, peace, loyalty and beauty. We fully support this witness appeal and the message it sends; London’s wildlife is precious and protected by law.”

Anyone with information can contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40, or text 61016, quoting reference E/B3 of 06/07/2015.

Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111