Swan dies following suspected dog attack

The RSPCA said it was likely the bird had been injured for days before it was found

A swan has died trying to protect her eggs following a suspected dog attack, the RSPCA has said.

The injured bird was found with a damaged wing and large wounds on her body near Pocklington canal head on Tuesday.

Officers said at least two eggs were found in a nest and loose feathers were scattered nearby.

The canal is said to be popular with dog walkers and the charity said it shows the importance of keeping animals on a lead in areas near nesting birds.

The injured bird, which was bleeding heavily, was taken to a veterinary hospital but was put to sleep to prevent further suffering.

It is thought the injuries had been sustained a few days prior to the RSPCA being called to the scene.

'Lost adult swan'

Animal rescue officer, Dan Richardson, said a male swan was also found in the area but was uninjured.

He said: "Although you must not disturb nesting birds or remove their eggs, we intervened on this occasion because of the severity of the swan’s injuries.

"There's a possibility the male might incubate the eggs, but we have sadly lost an adult swan and also potentially the brood."

Dog owners have a legal responsibility under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 to keep their dogs under control in public places.

Swans, their nests and their eggs are also protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

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