A SWAN has died after a savage attack as she tried to protect her five cygnets.

The female swan was attacked by two dogs at Park Farm Marina on Davenham Road in Rudheath, near Northwich.

A witness immediately reported the distressing incident to police and the RSPCA.

RSPCA inspector Nadine Pengilly said two large dogs, possibly Newfoundlands, were seen to chase and attack the swan at around 5.30pm on Monday evening.

She went to rescue the injured swan who was bleeding from a deep and gaping wound in the side of her body and rushed her to the RSPCA’s Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre in Nantwich.

Northwich Guardian:

The swan was bleeding from a deep and gaping wound in the side of her body

But sadly a vet decided her injuries were too severe and she had to be put to sleep to end her suffering.

Nadine said she was left especially upset as she knew the swan had a partner and five cygnets in a nest and is now worried about their future.

She said: “This terrible incident could have been avoided had the dog owner been responsible and kept their pets on a lead.

“We ask that dog owners be aware that there may be wild animals present in the area when walking their dog and to keep their dog under control at all times.

“Sadly we are called to many cases when swans have been killed in dog attacks.”

Nadine is now appealing for anyone with information about who the dogs belonged to to contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.