A goose has died after its leg was severed by discarded fishing wire at a lake near Maidstone.

An RSPCA officer made the grim discovery at Leybourne Lakes, Snodland.

The greylag goose's leg was hanging off and the charity made the difficult decision to put it to sleep.

Warning: Graphic images below

Brian Milligan, an animal collection officer at the RSPCA, said: “Unfortunately, swans and geese are commonly admitted to our wildlife centres as a result of being entangled in, swallowing, or being injured by, fishing litter.

“I would strongly urge those who enjoy fishing to be extra cautious when packing up to make sure no litter is left behind. Most anglers are very responsible when disposing of their litter, but it only takes one careless person to endanger the life of an animal.

“If any member of the public sees discarded litter around if they could pick it up and put it in the bin they may save an animals life.

“All sorts of litter can cause problems, line can wrap around necks causing deep wounds in flesh and cutting off the blood supply, hooks can pierce beaks,become embedded in skin or get caught in the bird's throat, and weights can be swallowed causing internal injuries and blockages.”