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Regulars to a quiet south Dublin park were left shocked and appalled after witnessing the brutal attack of an innocent swan by another animal.

The female swan was mauled to death by a dog - who is said to have been off its lead - in the park whose owner is alleged to have done a runner after the shocking incident.

One local said that it was "so sad that a majestic animal was killed because of some irresponsible human".

They added: "It was a horrible incident, not to mention the fact that swans are a protected species."

The dead swan was removed from the pond by Parks Staff on Thursday afternoon.

In a statement to Dublin Live, Dun Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council said: "The Parks Section of the Council were made aware of an incident of a dog attack on a swan in Kilbogget Park, early Thursday morning.

"Dog and dog owner responsible were not identified and unfortunately the incident resulted in the death of the swan."

They added: "There are signs in the park and around the pond and water course instructing the public that dogs should be kept on lead.

"Those parks covered by Parks bye laws require dogs to be kept on lead at all times also."