Police have issued a warning after receiving reports of young people using slingshots to harm wildlife in Bracknell.
Thames Valley Police said officers from its neighbourhood policing team had investigated incidents involving slingshots in the area.
The force said although slingshots are not specifically banned items, they can be classed as offensive weapons if they are carried in public without lawful reason or are intended to cause injury or damage.
Police warned people found carrying slingshots in those circumstances could face arrest, seizure of the item and possible prosecution.
Officers also stressed it is illegal to harm, injure or kill wild animals without lawful authority, adding that many birds and animals are protected by law.
The force described using slingshots against wildlife as “cruel”, “illegal” and “completely unacceptable”.
Police urged parents and guardians not to buy slingshots for children or allow them to carry them, warning they are “not toys”.
Anyone with information about people carrying or using slingshots irresponsibly, or harming wildlife, is being asked to report it online or by calling 101. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers
.
