POLICE have today said they are investigating the death of a swan and a seal through alleged decapitation.

West Kilbride residents had raised the matter after walkers reported the horrific findings on Seamill beach on Friday.

One said: "The Seamill swan has been decapitated. If you know who did this, turn them in."

Another villager claimed that the swan's head was found some 50 yards away from its body, while a dead seal without its head was also seen in the area with holes in its body.

The SSPCA told the News: “We can confirm we were alerted to a deceased seal and swan in Ayrshire on Sunday.

“After assessing the images it was thought there was no evidence of foul play.

“However, if anyone has evidence which does suggest this, we would advise they contact our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”

Sergeant Sharon Kerr, of Largs police, said her officers were now probing the matter.

She said: "Contact has been made with several individuals who had voiced concerns.

"The SSPCA have advised us that they have had no reports but it is something we are now looking further into."

Police investigations were continuing into the matter as we went to press.