Banora Point residents shocked after local swan brutally killed

Residents are still coming to terms with the death of Hercules, a neighbourhood swan, who was allegedly bashed by children with a stick and then mauled by an off-lead dog.

Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers volunteer Ron Potter at the site where Hercules was allegedly attacked by children with a stick and then savaged mauled by an off-leash dog.

BANORA Point residents are grappling to understand the senseless death of Hercules, a neighbourhood swan, who was allegedly bashed by children with a stick and then mauled by an off-lead dog.

The incident happened about two weeks ago at the lake behind Twin Towns Juniors.

Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers volunteer Ron Potter was called to the site and found Hercules swimming up a channel.

Mr Potter lined the banks and waited for Hercules to tire before using a net to capture him.

After assessing Hercules, Mr Potter said the swan “had no chance” of surviving his injuries which included puncture wounds down to his bones.

“He had been bitten quite savagely on the back,” Mr Potter said.

Currumbin Wildlife Hospital senior veterinarian Michael Pyne said the swan’s injuries were so severe, there was nothing the team could do to save him.

“The wounds were horrific, they were down to the bone,” Dr Pyne said.

“We would have had to amputate a leg and swans can’t survive on one leg, they’re too big of a bird.

“It wasn’t a happy outcome.”

Hercules and his parnter with their signet enjoying a feed at Jenny Cattanach's Banora Point property.

Dr Payne urged dog owners to keep their pets on a lead particularly at this time of the year.

He said when swans are approached by animals or people they will stay on the land to protect their nest.

“It’s the same story for nesting birds in a tree.

“It is not the time of the year to be doing extensive work to trees.”

Tweed Shire Council rangers are aware of the incident and have been patrolling the area.

Team Leader Rangers Nic Harrigan said council received reports a swan was attacked by juveniles and a dog.

“Officers conducted a site inspection on Tuesday to determine what signage is required to ensure dog owners are aware of their legislative obligations,” Mr Harrigan said.

“Council is making every effort to continue patrolling the area and speaking with local residents.”

Originally published as Banora Point residents shocked after local swan brutally killed