On Thursday 8 October, a black swan was seriously attacked by a dog at Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens.

The Conservation Regulator received reports that two women were walking a greyhound when the dog mauled the swan near its young cygnets at Hopetoun Lawn, close to Government House, at around 2pm.

Following veterinary assessment, the swan was euthanised due to the extent of its injuries.

It is an offence for dogs to chase, attack or injure wildlife on public land. Dog owners can face fines of up to $5,227 for offences involving wildlife.

The Conservation Regulator is investigating the incident and is appealing for information from anyone who witnessed the attack or has photos or video footage that may assist.