A swan was found badly injured on the towpath at Barton Country Park, Bradford on Avon, early this morning (17 April). Despite efforts from Bath Swan Rescue, the bird was so badly hurt it had to be put down.
Mystery Surrounds Brutal Assault
Police say a trail of feathers and signs of a struggle suggest the swan suffered a sustained attack. The bird was nesting at the time, and two eggs believed to be in the nest have gone missing.
Police Appeal for Eyewitnesses
If you saw anything suspicious from the evening of 16 April through to this morning in the Country Park, Wiltshire Police want to hear from you. Call 101 and quote reference 54260045606.
Dog Owners Warned to Keep Pets on Leads
While the exact cause of the swan’s injuries is unconfirmed, a dog attack is suspected. Authorities remind dog owners that it’s nesting and lambing season, and even well-trained dogs can harm ground nesting birds and livestock. “Please pay attention to signs and keep dogs on leads near wildlife,” police urged.
