Drivers urged to take care after swan run down in Scarborough
The RSPCA says it was an accident but motorists need to check for birds when reversing
The RSPCA is calling for motorists to take more care at the car park at Scarborough Mere after a swan was accidentally run down last week.
The bird suffered a fracture of its left wing in the incident near to the Mere Cafe on Thursday 3rd March and a vet made the decision that the bird had to be put to sleep to end his suffering.
RSPCA Inspector Laura Barber, who collected the bird from the car park, says her examination of the cafe’s CCTV footage suggests the driver of the car did not see the swan, which was very close to the vehicle as it reversed.
The motorist drove away from the scene, apparently unaware he had been trapped underneath the vehicle.
Now Laura is appealing for motorists to check their mirrors and look behind their cars before setting off as she says she has noticed how "brazen" the swans at the Mere appear to have become around vehicles.
She said: "The vehicle was reversing very slowly and unfortunately for the swan he was dragged for 30 yards under it.
"The cafe owner says it is the second time this has happened this year. There’s lots of swans at the Mere that are so brazen, they seem to have no fear and hang around the cars.
"The RSPCA is asking motorists to check behind their vehicles to avoid this happening again."
The inspector has approached Scarborough Borough Council with a view to having a warning sign erected at the car park.
Laura added: "I really think this incident was unintentional. The swan didn’t move.
"But people who come to the Mere are there to enjoy the birds, so they would be devastated to learn of this.
"It is just a case of being careful about how you park and how you drive back out, particularly with regard to reversing."
To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit their website or call their donation line on 0300 123 8181.