A BROOD of ducklings have been left motherless and in the care of wildlife enthusiasts after a mallard was attacked by a dog at a borough nature discovery park.

The incident happened at the Essex Wildlife Trust Chafford Gorges park which is a nature reserve where dogs should be kept on a leash between March and August.

However, the Trust has reported the killing of the mother duck, saying: "The park should be for all to enjoy.

"It is a nature reserve, and dogs need to be kept on a lead March-August while the waterfowl are breeding and raising their young. No dog breeds are exempt.

"Sadly a mallard and a coot were attacked by a dog this week, the mallard died leaving her ducklings motherless.

"We remind dog owners of the extra responsibility they have when on the reserve to ensure wildlife is protected. Thank you to all the responsible dog owners and users of the reserve."