A swan has died after a suspected dog attack at a park in Nottinghamshire, a charity has said. An RSPCA officer said injuries inflicted on the bird at Langold Country Park in Worksop last Thursday, May 25, were some of the worst she has ever seen.
Katie Hetherington rushed to the scene after the charity were alerted by a member of the public. The officer said she was shocked at the sight of the severely injured male swan, whose right wing had been left hanging from his body.
“He had possibly the worst break to a wing that I've ever seen in a bird - it had completely snapped," she said. "His right foot was also broken and he’d lost a substantial amount of blood.
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"He’d somehow managed to drag himself onto the path although it was clear when I arrived that his injuries were not survivable. The sight of this terribly wounded swan is something that will stay with me for quite some time."
The swan, believed to be one several mating pairs who reside on the lake and which could have been incubating eggs, was put down. The RSPCA said it was "difficult to believe" the injuries were caused by anything else other than a dog.
“It was reported that there were feathers in the water and a member of the public had heard splashing," said Ms Hetherington. "Even though a dog was not immediately seen, it’s difficult to think what else could have caused such catastrophic injuries.
"It was also hugely distressing for people to have witnessed and my sincere thanks go to the man who contacted us initially and stayed behind after the park had closed, as well as other members of the public for the kindness and compassion they showed.” Anyone with any information about the incident should contact the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.
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