HOBSONS Bay City Council is urging residents not to walk dogs off their leads in Newport Lakes Park after a swan died when a dog attacked it in December.
The attack left four cygnets orphaned, which the council said were now struggling to survive.
The incident followed reports of an increasing number of endangered birds being chased off by dogs or killed by cats in the area.
Spotswood Ward councillor Bill Baarini called on residents to observe the rules for the park, which forbid dogs on the Newport Lakes Nature Trail.
“Attacks such as this have an enormous impact on the fragile ecosystem at Newport Lakes Park,” Cr Baarini said.
“In this case, although one swan was killed, four more swans may still die.”
For more information about on and off-leash areas for dogs and responsible pet ownership in Hobsons Bay call the council on 9932 1000 or visit www.hobsonsbay.com.au
