Duck dies after horrific attack by dogs

A mallard: 'This is a clear case of animal cruelty'

A duck was the victim of a vicious attack in Hailsham yesterday evening (June 12).

The female mallard was attacked at Farne Close Pond, said a spokesman for East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service (WRAS).

He said local people have been aware of a group of young men with lurchers and a small short haired breed disturbing the ducks there.

Residents witnessed the horrific attack at around 7.30pm on Tuesday when shouts of “get it” were heard coming from the dogs’ owners.

The WRAS spokesman said three dogs managed to catch one of the ducks and “tear it apart” in front of distressed onlookers.

He said one witness confronted them and was greeted with “it’s only a duck” and “my dogs need feeding”.

The mallard was rushed to WRAS headquarters. Casualty Manager Chris Riddington said: “On arrival the duck was sadly almost gone. The bread that she was feeding on only moments before fell into my hand as her throat had been ripped open.

“It was horrific for the duck, the people that brought it in and the volunteers who tried to calm the finders down.”

The duck died from its injuries shortly after admission.