A SWAN was left in agony after a fishing hook got stuck in his face.

The Scottish SPCA discovered the bird on Monkland Canal in Lanarkshire on Thursday, March 15.

They are now warning fishermen throughout the country to clear their fishing rubbish.

Scottish SPCA Animal Rescue Officer Sarah Parker said, “The poor swan had a fishing hook attached to the front of his face which must have been very painful.

“Thankfully, we were able to get him over to the local vet and release him back into the canal very quickly.

“He’s an adult swan so it’s very likely that he and his partner will be expecting young soon and we were really keen to get him back with minimal disruption.

“It was very lucky that someone spotted him and alerted us when they did as it’s not always such a happy ending.

“The vast majority of fishermen are very responsible and take care to clear away their equipment after they've used it. However we want to remind anyone fishing not to leave their litter as they could kill a swan by doing so.”

Anyone concerned about the welfare of an animal should contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

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