Duck survives being shot through the head with a crossbow bolt

Mallard is evading RSPCA officers trying to help it

The mallard duck was spotted with the bolt through its head in the Dearne Valley County Park in Barnsley (RSPCA)

A duck has survived being shot through the head with a crossbow bolt and is evading capture in a park in Barnsley.

The mallard duck was spotted with the bolt through its head in the Dearne Valley County Park but appears to be relatively unconcerned by its bright yellow accessory.

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “We have made attempts to catch the duck - but it is still very mobile and active and therefore flies off when we get near it.

”One of our officers thinks that there is a chance that the arrow appears to have gone through its ear canal and missed the vital organs.“

RSPCA officers and local fishermen are continuing to monitor the bird.

Shooting a duck is punishable under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and the maximum penalty is a £5,000 fine and a six month prison sentence.

Anyone who has any information regarding who may have shot this duck to contact the RSPCA cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.