A wildlife hospital is appealing for information after two geese were found seriously injured.

The South Essex Wildlife Hospital, based in Orsett, shared the gruesome photo on social media and have condemned the apparent deliberate attack on the defenceless birds.

A spokesman for the hospital said: "Found by one of our supporters who was, unsurprising very distressed, these two geese appear to have been deliberately and brutally injured.

"From xrays, we think they have been shot with a crossbow.

"The shooter has then pulled out the arrow or used the same one to shoot again.

"Although these birds have been fending for themselves on a pond on Tootshill Road in Epping for a while, they are not wild birds so it possibly due to their more trusting nature that the person responsible was able to get so close to both of them.

"They were found with the brown one standing over the white one.

"It has taken a lot if time and resources to try and save these poor victims of a despicable crime.

"We doubt they will make it through the night but we are doing our absolute best for them.

"This incident has been reported to the police. If anyone has any information please get in touch with us."

If anyone would like to donate even a small amount towards the birds' care, please click here to find out more.