A 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty and possession of an offensive weapon following a report a pet peacock was killed with catapults.

The incident happened at an address in Old Tree Lane, Boughton Monchelsea, near Maidstone, at about 6pm on Sunday, April 21 during which it is alleged children fired slingshots at the bird.

Alison Carter and daughter Macey Michael-Carter were about to go on holiday when they were told their beloved pet had been targeted.

CCTV from a neighbour’s camera showed a group of five boys and one girl, three of which had slingshots, attempting to shoot the peacock named River out of a tree using a catapult.

After sharing the footage online, Alison said her 17-year-old daughter had been contacted by one of the suspects who allegedly told her “your peacock is 6ft under and you are going to be next”.

A 10-year-old boy, 19-year-old man, as well as a 16-year-old girl, have been interviewed in relation to the incident and an investigation to determine the circumstances is ongoing.

Police say they received a report of the offence just before 9.40am on Monday, April 22.

It comes after two catapults and 62 ball bearings were seized from two boys allegedly firing at wildlife in Paddock Wood.

Police confirmed the 15-year-old who was arrested, has since been released on bail, pending further enquiries.