Outrage after fatal dog attack on cygnet in Clissold Park

Swans in Clissold Park

Clissold Park users have expressed shock and outrage after a young swan died in a dog attack.

The incident took place on Monday next to one of the ponds, according to Caroline Millar from Clissold Park User Group.

She wrote on Facebook: “The swan died of a broken neck when it crashed into the fence trying to take off to escape the dogs.

“It is being looked into by the Hackney enforcement team who have descriptions of the dog walkers. That’s as much as we have been told so far.”

Asked whether the police had been informed and if she thought dogs should be kept on leads around the ponds, she wrote: “I am sorry. I don’t know any more. Regarding compulsory dogs on leads around the ponds, it is certainly something that could be considered but no doubt there would be different views on that.

“It is also quite hard to enforce with dogs running free in other areas. The rules around dogs are coming up for review soon and the user group will be involved in the consultation.”

Heidi Leybourne wrote on Facebook that she has witnessed other attempted attacks on waterfowl by dogs in the park.

She added: “Can we have a compulsory lead zone around animal areas and especially the river, as the birds are so exposed there?”

Another user wrote: “Did anyone see whose dogs [sic] did this? I would like to avoid at all costs.”

Update at 4.54pm on 15 December 2016:

Cllr Caroline Selman, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Enforcement, said: “Our enforcement officers are investigating and will try and track the relevant dog walkers and speak to them.

“Whilst dogs are allowed off the lead in most of the park, we would remind all dog owners that it is their responsibility to keep their dog under control at all times.

“Further, while dogs are generally allowed off the lead, where council officers think a dog may pose a risk they do have the power to ask for it to be put on a lead.

“Our enforcement officers have spoken to dog walkers in Clissold Park, advising them of the restrictions that are in place and that breaches will be enforced with fines.”