Swan killed in suspected dog attack Great Yarmouth

The body of a female swan was found at 8.30am on Tuesday morning (February 28) by the dunes, around 30 feet away from the boating lake, between the Waterways.

There were signs the swan had been chased, as it had been attacked from behind, with a trail of feathers on the beach, and the swan had a large wound.

The swan had been living with its partner on the boating lake on North Drive since last summer and had been seen the previous afternoon.

The dead swan's partner patrolling the lake and calling for his missing partner, who of course will never be returning (Image: Julie Young)

It is thought the swan was killed in a dog attack, as they tend to just chase and kill, while foxes often eat the animal.

The swan was removed by groundsmen and reported by a dog walker to Julie Young, 63, who also looks after swans at Bure Park.

She said: "It's always distressing to see wildlife killed in such a way. Nature itself can be cruel, but when a bird or animal dies as a result of human action, it's so much worse, as it's avoidable.

"We have quite a lot of wildlife on the dunes, some more unexpected than others - such as the swan - but all of which are vulnerable.

"Most dog owners are responsible and careful, and perhaps some simply don't realise the dangers to wildlife that can occur.

"I am greatly in favour of dogs being off their lead, but to just be aware and in control.

"It is so very sad."

Ms Young has reported the incident to the police and has enquired about CCTV in the area.

She is encouraging people to report incidents such as these in the future.