Warning for Dog Owners using Foots Cray Meadows

BendItLikeBexs · Site Admin Joined: 23 Apr 2007 Posts: 5

Dog owners are being warned to keep their dogs on leads and out of the water when they are walking on Foots Cray Meadows. The recent arrival of cygnets has caused the resident male swan to display extremely aggressive behaviour. Unfortunately the swan has recently critically injured a dog that came too close to its nest and has attacked others in and around the lake area.

"We have every sympathy with the owners of these dogs," says Bexley Council's Parks Nature and Community Officer, Mark Taylor. "Unfortunately the cygnets have made the male swan very sensitive. We would strongly advise anyone to stay away from both swans and their young until the cygnets leave their parents, which is usually by the end of September"

"For their animal's safety we ask dog owners to stick to the rules of the meadow by keeping their pets out of the water. We want visitors to enjoy their visit to the meadow while respecting these birds and other wildlife."

The lake and River Cray are part of the local nature reserve at Foots Cray Meadows. Dogs entering the water disturb wildlife which can lead to severe consequences for breeding birds. There are signs around the lake asking dog owners to keep their dogs out of the water and under control.

Along with swans, the river is home to Water Voles, Kingfishers, Mallard Ducks, Moorhens, Coots and on occasions Grey Herons and Cormorants.

For more info: http://www.bexley.gov.uk/news/2007/05/1801.html