Ask the Swan Specialist

NEW: Swans building nest in inappropriate area -- Victoria -- 27 March 2018

We have a male and female breeding pair. This year they built a nest in our garden area which is totally inappropriate due to easy access for predators. There would be no protection for them ...

NEW: Grieving behaviour after chased cygnet is killed? -- Maxine -- 27 March 2018

Hi, a lone cygnet swan that was being chased away by its parent (the male swan) sadly got hit by a bus yesterday and killed whilst both were tussling with each other in the air. Today the male swan ...

NEW: Swan flight -- Keith -- 27 March 2018

Can swans take off in middle of a field?

NEW: Re: Swan flight -- The Regal Swan -- 27 March 2018

Hi Keith Yes, a swan can take off on land or in the water as long as there is approximately 100 ft or more of clearance, i.e., no trees, buildings, electrical wires, fencing, etc. The Regal Swan

My swan won't eat -- Stephanie -- 23 March 2018

Hi, my swan has not eaten for about three days but her mate is eating fine; she does not come close to me when I come to the bank of the pond. She usually does. I think she is the female, but I am ...

Re: My swan won't eat -- The Regal Swan -- 23 March 2018

Hi Stephanie We would get her to a licensed veterinarian quickly. An Avian or wildlife veterinarian would be best as they will know more about bird issues. Regardless, she needs to be examined ...

2 female swans now have 5 eggs -- kim -- 21 March 2018

Hello i am fairly new to mute swans, i originally purchased 2 females at about 1 year ago lost one and it was replaced with another female from the original buyer. I also said that the new one acted ...

Re: 2 female swans now have 5 eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 21 March 2018

Hi Kim Unless the seller conducted a DNA Sequencing (most reliable way to determine gender) or probed ( the least reliable method), you may not know gender until nesting season. If the eggs produce ...

Clipping Swans Feathers & Breeding -- Dave -- 15 March 2018

Our swans at the end of last season we noticed were trying to fly. We put them in for the winter and we are ready to release them into our pond. We want to make sure our swans are either pinioned or ...

Re: Clipping Swans Feathers & Breeding -- The Regal Swan -- 16 March 2018

Hi Dave You need to have a licensed avian (bird) veterinarian show you how to clip the feathers. You only clip one wing so the swan is off balance and cannot fly. Clip both wings and you have ...

Missing Male Mute -- Ronnie -- 13 March 2018

I've been watching a cob and his mate now since last spring in a local pond. During the winter when the pond freezes over, understandably they both do disappear to a more favorable and survivable ...

Re: Missing Male Mute -- The Regal Swan -- 14 March 2018

Hi Ronnie The male may still be in the immediate area, scouting and protecting the surrounding area prior to the upcoming breeding season. The male swan should return to the habitat within the next ...

Blackneck swan -- Jim -- 13 March 2018

Will a female blackneck swan lay eggs if a male is not present?

Re: Blackneck swan -- The Regal Swan -- 14 March 2018

Hi Jim Yes, due to hormone levels increasing during mating season, female swans can still lay eggs wirh no male present. Obviously, the eggs are not fertile, but the female will still do what nature ...

Mated pair fighting -- Cindy -- 12 March 2018

Hi There is a mated pair of mute swans on our lake. They have displayed only love for each other to date. However today, much to our total surprise, the male chased the female and started fighting ...

Re: Mated pair fighting -- The Regal Swan -- 13 March 2018

Hi Cindy All swan pairs have family snits from now and then, so we would not worry too much about this one time event as long as it is not a continual occurrence. Since this time of year is entering ...

Lame Swan that can't get on land -- Cindy -- 11 March 2018

Hello! There is a female swan in our mobile home park pond that appears to have an injured leg. A concerned resident called the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary and they said that it may have been injured ...

Re: Lame Swan that can't get on land -- The Regal Swan -- 11 March 2018

Hi Cindy Swans and waterfowl in general can become stressed. However, as long as the swan is eating, swimming, preening, etc., this is a good sign. You do not want her to come out of the water, ...

Controlling male swan aggressiveness -- Van -- 8 March 2018

Hi: will castration of a male mute swan reduce his aggression? He is attacking people and cars. Is castration advisable? Thanks Van

Re: Controlling male swan aggressiveness -- The Regal Swan -- 8 March 2018

Hi Van No, you cannot castrate a male swan and this will not help with his defensiveness. Swans have elevated levels of hormones during this time of year and the levels will return to normal in ...

Widowed mother swan left with son: Will she have him as her mate? -- Jo -- 6 March 2018

The pair of swans on our river here ( river Exe Devon) have been there for years. This year the male disappeared, we presume dead as he had been fighting dogs to protect the cygnets. The young swans ...

Re: Widowed mother swan left with son: Will she have him as her mate? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 March 2018

Hi Jo Yes, this should work. Swans as well as many other birds will pair and mate with family members, especially if there are no other swans available for pairing. There may be a color variation, ...

Re: Widowed mother swan left with son: Will she have him as her mate? -- Jo -- 8 March 2018

Thank you for the reply

Re: Widowed mother swan left with son: Will she have him as her mate? -- The Regal Swan -- 8 March 2018

Hi Jo You are very welcome. The Regal Swan

Female swan getting aggressive -- Lyle -- 4 March 2018

We live in North Texas. Aquired a pair of swans 3 years ago and they live on our 4 acre pond. The male disappeared after only two weeks of arrival leaving the female a widow. She has been by herself ...

Re: Female swan getting aggressive -- The Regal Swan -- 4 March 2018

Hi Lyle The swan was scared enough after the encounter with the child so that she is now not only protecting herself, but also her habitat from anyone that might come into contact with her or you. ...

Group of 3 swans -- Elin -- 4 March 2018

Recently, we have had two sets of three swans take up residence nearby, one set on the river and the other set on a pond. They all appear to be adults. Why would swans live in a group of three, as ...

Re: Group of 3 swans -- The Regal Swan -- 4 March 2018

Hi Elin Migratory season is coming to an end and the juvenile swans (hatched last year) have been chased by the parents from their nesting area. During this time, the juveniles are told to go find ...

Widowed mute swan -- MaryAnn -- 28 February 2018

A male mute swan was widowed in my community about two weeks ago. For two weeks, he flew back and forth between their wintering pond and the pond where they raised their young. He'd chase off any ...

Re: Widowed mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 1 March 2018

Hi MaryAnn He may leave the area permanently or he may expand his travels to include the present habitat as well as those in the immediate area. If he is chasing swans from his previous habitat, it ...

Re: Widowed mute swan -- MaryAnn -- 3 March 2018

Thank you for the information. He has returned and is continuing to protect the two ponds. This would have been the 8th mating season for the pair. I don't know how long they were together prior to ...

Re: Widowed mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 3 March 2018

Hi MaryAnn You are very welcome. We are glad your swan has returned. Enjoy! The Regal Swan

Un well swan? -- Jeanette -- 24 February 2018

Hi, I live on the east coast of Tasmania Australia. We have a marsh land out the front of our house which goes down to a bay. The bay has numerous water birds living on it, black swan ducks etc. I ...

Re: Un well swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 24 February 2018

Hi Jeannette The swan could be sick, injured or could have been disoriented if it got lost from its habitat or has had no water or food for several days. Please report the swan to your local wildlife ...

Swan Eye Problem -- Daryl -- 22 February 2018

One of the female swans on the lake where i live started keeping one eye closed several months ago. Now, she keeps both eyes closed most of the time. She has been swimming into boats and docks. When ...

Re: Swan Eye Problem -- The Regal Swan -- 22 February 2018

Hi Daryl You need to capture the swan and take her to a licensed veterinarian for examination and treatment. Swans get conjunctivitis (pink eye), just like humans. This is an extremely painful itchy ...

Mute Swan Cygnet Alone -- Alicia -- 20 February 2018

Hi there, I’m not really sure where to turn as mute swans are considered invasive to my local waterways. I’m afraid to contact the local wildlife rescue. Anyway, there are two adult mute swans that ...

Re: Mute Swan Cygnet Alone -- The Regal Swan -- 20 February 2018

Hi Alicia Despite all of the misinformation disseminated by federal and state wildlife officials about Mute Swans, they are migratory. These same officials had to admit this in 2004 in a federal ...

Re: Mute Swan Cygnet Alone -- Alicia -- 20 February 2018

Thank you for all the info! Yes, I agree that there is a lot of misinformation regarding this species. All the research I had done deterred me from contacting the DNR or any other local agency. To be ...

Re: Mute Swan Cygnet Alone -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 20 February 2018

You are very welcome. The swan should do fine and find a mate and new habitat. If it should decide to stay (as long as the male parent leaves it alone), then it should be fine even if it does not ...

Black Swan cygnet rejected -- Stacey -- 12 February 2018

We have a black swan family with 5 cygnets. They were healthy and normal but now at about 12 weeks one of the cygnets keeps being attacked and run ashore by the father and a larger cygnet. Is this ...

Re: Black Swan cygnet rejected -- The Regal Swan -- 13 February 2018

Hi Stacey If the cygnet was older and the oldest male, this would be normal behavior as male swan parents will chase older swan males from the habitat so there is no breeding rivalry. However, in ...

Male swan vanished -- Lisa -- 5 February 2018

Hello I had posted a few months ago that a male swan showed up at my dad's pond. We were concerned with the freezing temperatures, him being alone, and the predators that could be in the bush near ...

Re: Male swan vanished -- The Regal Swan -- 6 February 2018

Hi Lisa The swan may have flown from the area if something scared him or if he felt the need to migrate because of increment weather. However, under these scenarios, it would seem that both would ...

Blood in my black swans poop ? -- Shelby -- 31 January 2018

I have a baby swan that is one month old. Tonight I noticed blood in his stool. I’m not sure what to do...

Re: Blood in my black swans poop ? -- The Regal Swan -- 1 February 2018

Hi Shelby You need to get the cygnet to a licensed veterinarian with bird/waterfowl expetience. Even though this could be the result of some injury, this is more likely some type of parasite or ...

Will Australian Swans lay another set of eggs if we take away the cygnets? -- Roger -- 27 January 2018

Was wondering if you take the cygnets from your australian pair after 2-3 weeks, Would they possibly lay another set of eggs and hatch this year? Ours hatched 2 weeks ago. winter here. We live in ...

Re: Will Australian Swans lay another set of eggs if we take away the cygnets? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 January 2018

Hi Roger We would strongly suggest that the cygnets are NOT taken from the parents. Keep the family together in the barn ensuring that their straw, water and food is changed daily. Once the weather ...

Lame swan -- Mel -- 27 January 2018

Hi I have come across a lame swan it cannot use one leg just carries it I took it to a vet who said it’s not broken and to give some physio therapy it can swim but can’t walk There is no wildlife ...

Re: Lame swan -- The Regal Swan -- 27 January 2018

Hi Mel The swan is probably in some pain and reluctant to use leg for this reason. This is why it is so important to allow him to swim and exercise his leg. The swan may have an infection so we would ...

Male Swan Alone Again, Will the Partner Return? -- Lynne -- 23 January 2018

Hello, We live on a small lake in New Jersey. Our female swan was hit by a car about 4 years ago and killed. leaving our pinioned male alone until Fall 2016. That Fall a pair of wild swans and their ...

Re: Male Swan Alone Again, Will the Partner Return? -- The Regal Swan -- 23 January 2018

Hi Lynne There are no guarantees that the swan will return. However, usually birds and wildlife will return to an area that has sufficient food sources, nesting area, shelter from severe weather, ...

Re: Male Swan Alone Again, Will the Partner Return? -- Lynne -- 24 January 2018

Thank you for your reply. Lynne

Re: Male Swan Alone Again, Will the Partner Return? -- The Regal Swan -- 24 January 2018

Hi Lynne You are very welcome. Please let us know if the swan returns. The Regal Swan

Swans in wheat field, a lot of coyotes present -- Donna -- 20 January 2018

For the past two weeks we have had 2 white swans in a wheat field that have not moved but a few feet at a time. The past two weeks we have been down to 7 degrees at night and I've never seen them ...

Re: Swans in wheat field, a lot of coyotes present -- The Regal Swan -- 20 January 2018

Hi Donna More than likely, the swans were caught in the severe cold front with high winds, sleet, snow and ice and found the wheat field as a safe stopover with some vegetation (food), as they are a ...

Mute Swan: How long without food and the coldest temperatures they can survive -- Matthew -- 19 January 2018

Hello, I have two questions regarding mute swans. First, I was wondering how long can wild swans go without food, and second what are the coldest temperatures swans can survive during the winter?

Re: Mute Swan: How long without food and the coldest temperatures they can survive -- The Regal Swan -- 20 January 2018

Hi Matthew Mute Swans are Northern Hemisphere Swans which means that they do very well in cold conditions. Swans need food throughout the day regardless of temperature. Therefore, they migrate to ...

Re: Mute Swan: How long without food and the coldest temperatures they can survive -- Matthew -- 21 January 2018

Cool, thank you for the information.

Re: Mute Swan: How long without food and the coldest temperatures they can survive -- The Regal Swan -- 21 January 2018

Hi Matthew You are very welcome. The Regal Swan

Swans Separating -- Brenda -- 19 January 2018

I know it is said swans mate for life (typically); when we moved to a new office location there were 3 trumpeter swans living in the river next to our building; when summer came 1 left (we assume in ...

Re: Swans Separating -- The Regal Swan -- 19 January 2018

Hi Brenda Swans can stay together for life, but if someone comes along that is better, they will re-pair. Pairing is usually dependent upon successful breeding and raising of young. So, usually swans ...

Eggs disappeared from the nest -- Linnea -- 17 January 2018

After laying 5 eggs, they began disappearing after about 40 days. We had a trail camera on them and there we no predators. The last one disappeared last night. The swans are swimming and eating ...

Re: Eggs disappeared from the nest -- The Regal Swan -- 17 January 2018

Hi Linnae If after 40 days of sitting on eggs, the eggs were either unviable or infertile and the parents dumped the eggs into the water. The parents will kick the eggs into the water so that ...

Companion for female black swan -- Rebecca -- 15 January 2018

We bought a house 2 years ago and inherited a female black swan. She is 5 or 6 years old and lost her mate some years ago. She then mated with a male Polish mute swan (also resident) and to our ...

Re: Companion for female black swan -- The Regal Swan -- 15 January 2018

Hi Rebecca There are no guarantees that your female or any new swan that you may introduce will accept each other, especially since your swan has lived on this pond alone for many years. She is going ...

Re: Companion for female black swan -- Rebecca -- 16 January 2018

Thank you very much for your help. Our swan has been alone only nine months so perhaps there is still hope for a new friend. We will get in touch with Wendy. Thanks again. Rebecca

Re: Companion for female black swan -- The Regal Swan -- 17 January 2018

Hi Rebecca You are very welcome.We hope that Wendy can help you. The Regal Swan

Cygnet adoption by another pair of swans? -- Gin -- 12 January 2018

What are these bird habits? I was wondering if a cygnet from an another cluster could be adopted by another pair of swans

Re: Cygnet adoption by another pair of swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 12 January 2018

Hi Gin It would be highly unusual for swan parents to accept another cygnet from a different family. Usually, the adult swans chase other swans from their immediate nesting area. This chasing may ...

Cygnets leaving -- Kathryn -- 12 January 2018

The swans on our park lake had 7 Cygnets this year, about a month ago there was only one with its patents, what has happened to the other 6?

Re: Cygnets leaving -- The Regal Swan -- 12 January 2018

Hi Kathryn It is time for the migratory season. During this time, swan parents chase the cygnets so they leave the nesting habitat and their parents to find a mate and habitat of their own. More than ...

My Trumpeter swan is dead: How to remove her out of frozen waters? -- Michelle -- 11 January 2018

Oh God Please help me if you can.... I have had this trumpeter for alittle less than 2 years. She lost her mate a year ago.. But I also have a pair of mute swans that we have had for over 8 years... ...

Re: My Trumpeter swan is dead: How to remove her out of frozen waters? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 January 2018

Hi Michelle We are so sorry for your loss and are so familiar with losing such a magnificent bird. More than likely, she did drown as she probably fell through the ice and could not exit, especially ...

Male swan not walking -- Pamela -- 9 January 2018

Hi, my mother had to move 2 swans from an old shelter to a new farm. However in the process they have to travel around 4 hours in special boxes. After that female seems to be doing ok in the new ...

Re: Male swan not walking -- The Regal Swan -- 9 January 2018

Hi Pamela There could be several issues: 1. Stress from the trip and not accustomed to you or the new surroundings. 2. Swans get rather perturbed about being brought indoors and will pout---no ...

Care of swans during freezing weather: Penning -- Otis -- 6 January 2018

Greetings from a frozen Okla. Our Hoa 4 acre pond has Endured a five days below freeze resulting in the loss of our female swan. Our part of the state normally will not see a freeze lasting over 3 to ...

Re: Care of swans during freezing weather: Penning -- The Regal Swan -- 7 January 2018

Hi Otis: No matter the length of the stay in an indoor pen, the swans must be misted with warm water on a daily basis and kept out of drafts. Once you know the target date of release back onto the ...

Swan mating: The males attack the females -- Jesmond -- 6 January 2018

I had 2 swans living together, and after 3 years I found out they are both male and I seperated them. They where still in the same pond, but with a wire fence between them, so they could still see ...

Re: Swan mating: The males attack the females -- The Regal Swan -- 6 January 2018

Hi Jesmond If male swans grow up together at a very young age, they will bond and form a pair. Therefore, they do not need to be separated unless they constantly fight and one is refused access to ...

Swans in garage during cold season: Swimming required? -- Jenn -- 6 January 2018

Hi! Swan specialist, Thank you for all the great information on your site. As a novice raising two female swans, it has been very beneficial. I live in suburban Philadelphia, and the Northeast has ...

Re: Swans in garage during cold season: Swimming required? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 January 2018

Hi Jen: Thanks for your kind words. No, the swans do not need a swimming feature. We have kept swans in hurricanes for four weeks at a time, with no water feature and no problems. You will need to ...

Swans in winter (NC) -- Maggie -- 2 January 2018

There are two swans in the pond at work. One of them is in the middle of the pond, in a small break in the ice and wont get out. I cant tell if she is stuck or if she just doesnt want to move. The ...

Re: Swans in winter (NC) -- The Regal Swan -- 2 January 2018

Hi Maggie You might try to see if you can find the manager of the pond or a wildlife rescue facility near you. They will need to access the ice by boat (carefully as not to capsize and fall in the ...

Mute swan on the ice -- Lisa -- 1 January 2018

A mute swan has made its home at my parents pond. He is all alone. We have been in contact with two women from the Lancaster area and they are giving us advice on him. My dad has purchased a pump and ...

Re: Mute swan on the ice -- The Regal Swan -- 1 January 2018

Hi Lisa We agree. As long as he has ample water to stay in at night and he has plenty to eat, he will be warm and okay. If this is a wild swan, it is highly unlikely that he will be easily caught to ...

Eggs -- Linnea -- 26 December 2017

Our swans have been incubating their eggs for 45 days. None have hatched. How long should we wait?

Re: Eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 26 December 2017

Hi Linnae 45 days is within the realm of normal hatching. Also, your count may not be the swan's incubation time frame. Incubation does not start until the last egg is layed. The swans know what they ...

Swan on the ice -- Bob -- 25 December 2017

Hi, I live in Moberly Lake in northeastern BC . The lake has just frozen over and temp is -20c. There is a swan sitting out on the ice for three days now, still getting up and moving around, ...

Re: Swan on the ice -- The Regal Swan -- 26 December 2017

Hi Bob Not sure why the swan is still staying in the area unless the weather is so bad it has no where to go. As long as it is not frozen on the pond and can get up and fly away, we would suggest ...

8 month old cygnet is being driven away by the cob -- Betty -- 22 December 2017

Our pen and cob hatched two cygnets 8 months ago and the cob has suddenly started picking on one of the cygnets (sex unknown) and the cygnet is having to stay away from his family not by choice. The ...

Re: 8 month old cygnet is being driven away by the cob -- The Regal Swan -- 22 December 2017

Hi Betty This is normal behavior. It is time for the cygnets to leave prior to the next breeding season. More than likely, the cygnet being dispatched early is the oldest swan and a male. He is now ...

Swan keeps falling over -- Kerry -- 22 December 2017

Hi, I have a mum and dad swan and 5 signets that are about 7 months old. They live in the sea at the bottom of the garden but come up to the garden to rest etc. Mummy swan has started falling over, a ...

Re: Swan keeps falling over -- The Regal Swan -- 22 December 2017

Hi Kerry The mum swan could be injured or suffering from some type of illness. You need to call the RSPCA or a local swan sanctuary. They need to capture the family and have all swans checked by a ...

When do mute swans typically return to MA after wintering? -- B.& Ways -- 18 December 2017

We had a nesting pair of mute swans arrive early last spring and they had 6 beautiful cygnets. After the pond level significantly dropped early this October, they all left, only to have 4 young ones ...

Re: When do mute swans typically return to MA after wintering? -- The Regal Swan -- 19 December 2017

Hi Swans will return in the spring to their nesting and territorial sites. Currently, the birds are on the way to their migratory stop-overs (areas where they can rest and feed) and then travelling ...

Swans mad at each other -- Michael -- 16 December 2017

Hello, Thanks for trying to answer my question. I have a pair of Mute Swans; had them for about two years; we got them as babies (still gray). This past month the dominating one would chase the other ...

Re: Swans mad at each other -- The Regal Swan -- 16 December 2017

Hi Michael Were there any changes to the habitat which may have disturbed or scared the swans, i.e., mowing, planting, noise, construction etc., in the area? Were there any predators in the area at ...

New Study Disputes Federal and State Wildlife Justification for Killing and Controlling Mute Swans -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 4 December 2017

International swan and wetland habitat specialists as well as The Regal Swan Foundation, have been disputing for years the "junk science", that federal and state wildlife officials have disseminated ...

Baby swan got sick badly -- Nahid -- 29 November 2017

Hello! This is Nahid. our 15 days old baby swan is sick. it could not walk or swim properly. it has an enormous pain on it's leg. how to cure the little baby? will u plz give me suggestion?

Re: Baby swan got sick badly -- The Regal Swan -- 29 November 2017

Hi Nahid You need to get the cygnet to a veterinarian immediately. There is no way of knowing what is wrong or course of treatment without an examination. The cygnet could have been accidently ...

Black Swans: One is alone, Introduce new swan in bloodline, Can we sell cygnets -- Terri -- 29 November 2017

Hello, I care for Black Swans at my trailer park. We have six on one pond, 2 "parents" and their four offspring. The four offspring have paired up and the six swans seem to get along well. ...

Re: Black Swans: One is alone, Introduce new swan in bloodline, Can we sell cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 29 November 2017

Hi Terri 1. No, you cannot intermix families (cygnets), because the older swans may intentionally fight with the cygnets which could cause serious injury and even death to the cygnets. 2. Each state ...

Re: Black Swans: One is alone, Introduce new swan in bloodline, Can we sell cygnets -- Terri -- 5 December 2017

I can't thank you enough for your detailed answers. You have helped me greatly. I spoke with Jack Long, what a great guy! He was also very helpful and was able to answer the question about selling ...

Re: Black Swans: One is alone, Introduce new swan in bloodline, Can we sell cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 5 December 2017

Hi Terri Glad we could be of assistance and that Jack Long is a great resource for you. The Regal Swan

Swan pairing -- Kelly -- 28 November 2017

We had a single male swan. We went and got a three-year-old female Swan. We put her in a pen by the lake for about three days. He came up and sat by the cage most of the day. When we let her out; he ...

Re: Swan pairing -- The Regal Swan -- 28 November 2017

Hi Kelly You need to immediately capture her and place her back in the pen. If you do not capture her, there is a possibility that a predator in the woods will attack and kill her. The swan needs to ...

Swan still on pond -- Suzanne -- 26 November 2017

Hi I have a swan that has been on my pond for 2 weeks or so that hasn't left. This is very unusually for what I have ever seen here. I live in Massachusetts and it is now getting cold and not sure if ...

Re: Swan still on pond -- The Regal Swan -- 27 November 2017

Hi Suzanne We have heard several reports in various areas about birds of various species not migrating during the normal migratory time. Some speculation attributes this late migration to hurricane ...

Re: Swan still on pond -- Suzanne -- 30 November 2017

Thank you very much for your feed back. If the swan doesn't leave and I need to contact someone how do I know I am contacting the correct organization that will not eradicate this swan? I am in ...

Tip of Swan Primary Flight Feathers is pinkish -- Anita -- 23 November 2017

Hi Swan Specialist, We have a swan family at our Park that I have been watching for three years. I noticed recently, about three weeks ago, the adult female has some discoloration, a slight pinkish ...

Re: Tip of Swan Primary Flight Feathers is pinkish -- The Regal Swan -- 23 November 2017

Hi Anita Yes, we would love photos as we have been researching this syndrome for several years. The pink coloration is caused by bacteria and is known as the Pink Feather or Pink Flamingo Syndrome. ...

Re: Tip of Swan Primary Flight Feathers is pinkish -- Anita -- 23 November 2017

Thank you for the reply. I will email the photo as it is too big to send via this message portal. If not clear I can take a few more to send. The female is eating, drinking, flying. All seems normal. ...

Will my swans migrate -- Wendy -- 9 November 2017

I have a couple of Trumpeter Swans on my pond. I think they are Trumpeter anyway. It's Nov 9 and I'm wondering if they are going to migrate. We have fed them this summer/fall and now wondering if ...

Re: Will my swans migrate -- The Regal Swan -- 9 November 2017

Hi Wendy If the swans have an orange bill, they are Mute Swans. This is the swan species that Michigan DNR along with other federal and state wildlife officials are killing so the larger Trumpeter ...

Cygnet left on its own -- Sarah -- 8 November 2017

Hi, I'm a dog walker and regularly walk along the Oxford canal throughout the summer and there has been a family of swans 7 cygnets causing havoc. However over the last 3 days the family has ...

Re: Cygnet left on its own -- The Regal Swan -- 8 November 2017

Hi Sarah: Normally, the parents will take all cygnets along for migration unless there is something wrong. Please contact the RSPCA or Wendy Hermon at Swan Support in Datchet. They should be able to ...

At what age do swans lay eggs? -- Dominic -- 30 October 2017

Hello, I'm Dominic Harry I want to know in which age and month do swan lay eggs. I have two female swan and one male . I'm so curious to know when my pet lay eggs Thank you

Re: At what age do swans lay eggs? -- The Regal Swan -- 31 October 2017

Hi Dominic: Laying of eggs depends on the time of season which depends on the species of swan that you maintain. Age also has an effect on when the eggs are laid. 1. If the swans are at least 1-2 ...

Protecting nest -- Linnea -- 29 October 2017

Our swans have started to build their nest before we got the platform in the pond. Any suggestions on keeping them safe from predators? Should we try to move nest?

Re: Protecting nest -- Linnea -- 4 November 2017

Well she couldn’t wait for a new nest! We have at least one egg so far and they covered it with straw in the nest. The male is also sitting to allow Momma to eat. I’ll keep you updated!

Re: Protecting nest -- The Regal Swan -- 4 November 2017

Hi Linnea: Thanks for the update. The Regal Swan

Re: Protecting nest -- Linnea -- 6 November 2017

3 eggs this morning!

Re: Protecting nest -- The Regal Swan -- 6 November 2017

Hi Linnea: Congratulations. Yep, she could not wait for a floating nest. Enjoy! The Regal Swan

Re: Protecting nest -- The Regal Swan -- 29 October 2017

Hi Linnae If they are just starting the nest and no eggs, we would suggest removing the nesting material and placing it on the platform as long as you can prepare the platform in the next few days. ...

Regal Swan® Foundation Discovers United States Violating 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 26 October 2017

For Immediate Release October 26, 2017 Contact: Shirley A. Bolin Email: Bolin.S@att.net Phone: (407) 931-6838 Regal Swan® Foundation Discovers United States Violating 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act: ...

Sheila Bolin, of The Regal Swan Foundation, Nominee for World’s Leading Animal Conservation Award -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 23 October 2017

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sept. 12, 2017 Nominees Announced for World’s Leading Animal Conservation Award Wildlife Heroes Vie for Top Honor and $250,000 INDIANAPOLIS – As 2,200 zoological professionals ...

When to clip baby swan's wings -- Gregory -- 13 October 2017

We bought two swans last year from a company in Halifax Pennsylvania. This year this one’s had three eggs; one of them has hatched yesterday and I am wondering how soon do we need to have the baby ...

Re: When to clip baby swan -- The Regal Swan -- 13 October 2017

Hi Gregory You must have the cygnet's wing pinioned (one wing's flight portion amputated) at 1-3 weeks of age by a licensed veterinarian. You do this at the 1-3 week of age timeline, otherwise the ...

White and brown young swans -- Sue -- 9 October 2017

We live on a lake where two swans have come every year to have their family. This year there are three young swans, however they are different colors. One is white like the adults and the other two ...

Re: White and brown young swans -- The Regal Swan -- 9 October 2017

Hi Sue: No, this is a color variation known as leucism. First, all Mute Swans are known as Mute Swans or scientifically as Cygnus olor. However, swan keepers may refer to the Mute Swans as "Royal" or ...

How long can mute swans remember? -- Matthew -- 8 October 2017

Hello, I have a few questions regarding mute swans. I was just wondering how long mute swans can remember? And I live in Massachusetts; so the Stanley Park at my home state has a Swan, that I have ...

Re: How long can mute swans remember? -- The Regal Swan -- 9 October 2017

Hi Matthew: Swans will remember any acts of kindness and the person that has been kind to them. Usually, cordiality or remembrance has nothing to do with the mate passing and is a life-long ...

Wandering Male Swan -- Julie -- 7 October 2017

We have a mated pair of white mute swans. We have had them 1 year on our farm with a large pond. They have always wandered around, coming up to our house or the barn especially when hungry but they ...

Re: Wandering Male Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 7 October 2017

Hi Julie: Yes, this behavior needs to be stopped immediately because the swan will eventually be killed by a car or a predator that attacks the swan away from the pond. One of the reasons that the ...

Re: Wandering Male Swan -- Julie -- 8 October 2017

After doing a bit more research & thinking about some things & really taking a hard look at the current yard, I'm actually thinking he is looking for better grass/vegetation. I gave them some ...

Re: Wandering Male Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 9 October 2017

Hi Julie: Glad that they are eating, but not sure about the apples and carrots. Apples have seeds that contain a poison that may be harmful to the swans. So, we would be careful about feeding them ...

Do swan parents abandon their young? -- Kim -- 6 October 2017

Do swan parents abandon their young? I live by 2 ponds that are very close together. Every year, a pair of swans raise their young on these ponds. This year only one baby swan survived, to be raised ...

Re: Do swan parents abandon their young? -- The Regal Swan -- 7 October 2017

Hi Kim: Yes, swans will eventually migrate which is currently the time of year. However, they normally will encourage the young to migrate with them unless something is wrong with the cygnet and it ...

Injured swan - how do I transport? -- Tonya -- 5 October 2017

Hi, I am a property manager at a community in Pennsylvania. I have two swans in the community pond. One is injured, and I need to take him to a vet. But it seems that everyone I try to reach out to ...

Re: Injured swan - how do I transport? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 October 2017

Hi Tonya What is the injury? Federal and state wildlife officials want the Mute Swans dead so they can introduce the larger Trumpeter Swans for Trophy Waterfowl hunting purposes. So. getting them to ...

New swans won't come in to eat -- Katrina -- 4 October 2017

I have a new set of swans. I have had them on my pond for 5 days now. They are very shy, about 6 months old and were hand raised. They are on our pond with other waterfowl. The swans will not come to ...

New swans won't come in to eat -- The Regal Swan -- 5 October 2017

Hi Katrina Introduced swans should be placed in an acclimation pen (1/2 in water, 1/2 on land with zero entrance to prevent foot or leg injuries (non-abrasive and non-slick substrate, completely ...

Cygnet: is this Angel wing? -- Harry -- 28 September 2017

Hello,there seems to be something out of place with this Cygnet, could this be what is called angel wing ? Have not tried to catch it yet, don`t want to disturb them unless we need to. Harry

Re: Cygnet: is this Angel wing? -- Harry -- 28 September 2017

Hi.the Cygnets are 4 months old, I have never seen this one stretching, I will get other photos and send them on.Thanks Harry .

Re: Cygnet: is this Angel wing? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 September 2017

Hi Harry Great. Many thanks. The Regal Swan

Re: Cygnet: is this Angel wing? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 September 2017

Hi Harry We need some additional info and photos. Could you please get a photo showing the whole cygnet, and a side view of the wing? Also, how old is the cygnet, does it have trouble stretching the ...

Re: Cygnet: is this Angel wing? -- Harry -- 4 October 2017

Hello again, We managed to catch the Cygnet and took it to our Local Vet.She took an xray and discovered it was an old break that had fused together and could not do much for to help. We have ...

Re: Cygnet: is this Angel wing? -- The Regal Swan -- 4 October 2017

Hi Harry Great news that you got the cygnet to a veterinarian and have made arrangements for its future care. Thank you for caring and assisting the bird. You might want to wait for the parents to ...

Swan taps on our window -- Alison -- 25 September 2017

We have a lake as part of our property (3 properties). We have two swans who have recently had six signets. They have recently began to come up to our sliding glass door, where the babies and I ...

Re: Swan taps on our window -- The Regal Swan -- 26 September 2017

Hi Alison You have spoiled demanding swans. They know you feed them, where you live and expect you to be on time and consistent with their food. You are not allowed to leave, it is all about them. ...

Lost swan? Lost cygnets? -- Loren -- 23 September 2017

Hello! Today I noticed a very large swan on the small beach that I live next to in Connecticut. This is the first time I have seen a swan In this area. All day long he has been walking up and down ...

Re: Lost swan? Lost cygnets? -- The Regal Swan -- 24 September 2017

Hi Loren: From the photo, we suspect that this is a male swan, probably juvenile (although not able to determine age just from observation), that was blown off course during the recent heavy rains ...

Re: Lost swan? Lost cygnets? -- Loren -- 23 September 2017

Picture of the swan

5 month old cygnet found dead, floating with its head under its wing -- Susan -- 22 September 2017

We have a mating pair of swans, and this year they hatched two cygnets (we had a mid March freeze that may have frozen the other six eggs). The two cygnets have been healthy and eating and growing ...

Re: 5 month old cygnet found dead, floating with its head under its wing -- The Regal Swan -- 23 September 2017

Hi Susan: Our first thought would be that the cygnet ingested something poisonous while feeding. If you have been experiencing any drought or heavy rains in the area, the cygnet could have been ...

Re: 5 month old cygnet found dead, floating with its head under its wing -- Helen -- 14 October 2017

Hi Stanley Park Swans, This happened also in our lake. So sad since I watched the family of 6 babies grow. The Mayor happened to be here and personally thew it in the trash. Shouldn’t they send it to ...

Injured beak -- Annie -- 22 September 2017

Hi, I was looking through my pictures when I happened to notice that one of the swan kids of a family (showed up a few weeks or so ago in the area) appears to have an injury with its beak. I was ...

Re: Injured beak -- The Regal Swan -- 23 September 2017

Hi Annie: Yes, there is definitely an injury to the bill, not sure without examination if the bill will heal or if the injury will impede feeding. As long as the cygnet can open and close its bill to ...

Re: Injured beak -- Annie -- 24 September 2017

I just thought of something.. I believe that the injured one is the same one that was following the rest of the family as they moved, trailing behind... with its head tucked in. Normally I don't see ...

Re: Injured beak -- The Regal Swan -- 24 September 2017

Hi Annie Not necessarily. The cygnet could be wanting to nap or rest and not go swimming. If the cygnet continues to keep the bill under the wings, it may mean that it is hurting when water enters ...

Re: Injured beak -- Annie -- 25 September 2017

Got another picture of the same cygnet... looks like there's more damage that was hidden when it hid its beak under its feathers. Should I get a hold of a rehabilitation center?

Re: Injured beak -- The Regal Swan -- 25 September 2017

Hi Annie Yes, the cygnet needs to be examined and if this is causing pain, to be humanely euthanized. If the swan cannot eat or is in great pain, it will not survive in the wild and there is no ...

Re: Injured beak -- Annie -- 3 October 2017

Bit of an update... it was captured yesterday to be taken to a wildlife centre. I regrettably was not the one who brought their attention to its plight. I had conflicting thoughts and feelings which ...

Re: Injured beak -- The Regal Swan -- 4 October 2017

Hi Annie Wildlife does not react to separation or death as humans. The parents may look for the cygnet for a couple of hours, but then they go about their business. In this case, the parents probably ...

Properly caring for a scared swan -- Emilie -- 20 September 2017

I bought a new house in March that came with a pond and a swan. At the time he was pretty irritable generally and would bite at anyone who came near him or his feeding bowl. In June, we noticed that ...

Re: Properly caring for a scared swan -- The Regal Swan -- 21 September 2017

Hi Emilie The swan is scared of the heron because he was hurt. He is ticked at your husband for capturing him. Your husband needs to continue going and working around the pond, ignore the swan until ...

Injured Swan (foot) -- Curt -- 15 September 2017

I am in need of a Veterinarian in or around Columbus Ohio who can take a look at our Swan's foot.

Re: Injured Swan (foot) -- The Regal Swan -- 15 September 2017

Hi Curt This looks like bumblefoot, even though it is on top of the foot. In any case it looks infected. Whether a puncture wound or bumblefoot, this could be a nasty staph infection. We would ...

Can I stroke swans? Do they need a shelter in winter? -- Thai Ping Wong -- 14 September 2017

I have a pair of pinioned mute swans in france. They feed on aquatic plants, grass etc and I also feed them with maize which they love and they come close to me to get fed. I was wondering if I can ...

Re: Can I stroke swans? Do they need a shelter in winter? -- The Regal Swan -- 14 September 2017

Hi Thai: Swans usually are not easily domesticated, but this is an individual attribute if they like and trust you to the point of touching. You may need to build further trust before they allow you ...

Mate for female -- Ann -- 8 September 2017

Hi - I have a friend that lives on a laree very beautiful piece of property that has a large pond on it. She took in a female swan that can no longer fly and she would love to get a mate for it. This ...

Re: Mate for female -- The Regal Swan -- 9 September 2017

Hi Ann: There are no guarantees that either swan will accept each other which is only one issue. The major issue is that in Canada, your friend may need a federal permit to maintain a swan or keep a ...

Cygnet constantly pecks at a patch on his underside -- Rowena -- 8 September 2017

3 week old cygnet has just started pecking constantly at a patch on underside what could be the problem

Re: Cygnet constantly pecks at a patch on his underside -- The Regal Swan -- 9 September 2017

Hi Rowena Sometimes, birds will pick at themselves due to stress. In most cases, there is the possibility of a underlying parasite, i.e., mites, lice, etc. You need to have the cygnet examined by a ...

Newly arrived swans: How long in enclosure before release, and how to protect from big tropical storm -- Heather -- 7 September 2017

I just received my 2 pairs of black swans that are 8 months old and pinioned. I have then in a large fenced dog run to get acquainted with their new home. Question: How long do they have to be caged ...

Re: Newly arrived swans: How long in enclosure before release, and how to protect from big tropical -- The Regal Swan -- 8 September 2017

Hi Heather You need to keep them in the pen for approximately 2 weeks to acclimate them to the new habitat and you as the caregiver. As far as the big storm, treat the swans as you would any pet. ...

Floating swan nest -- Linnea -- 7 September 2017

I'd like to purchase plans for floating swan nesting dock or feeder .

Re: Floating swan nest -- The Regal Swan -- 7 September 2017

Hi Linnea Please contact Bob Knox at Knox Swans and Dogs (847-875-3947). He sells the floating nests. The Regal Swan

Separating cygnets from parents -- J'Amy -- 4 September 2017

We have a mute swan pair that took up residence on the creek on our property (they belong to the farmer up stream, but they prefer the open water of the creek over the farm pond, apparently). We have ...

Re: Separating cygnets from parents -- The Regal Swan -- 4 September 2017

Hi J'amy Give them approximately 2 weeks. The swans should be acclimated by that time. Keep a close watch on the swans for a couple of days once you release them to insure that they don't try walking ...

Cygnet not flying -- Suzie -- 29 August 2017

The swans on our pond had three cygnets in May. Two of them have started flying, but one of them has not. Is it common for them to fly at different times? I am beginning to get very concerned as the ...

Re: Cygnet not flying -- The Regal Swan -- 29 August 2017

Hi Suzie: If the third cygnet is the runt, its flight feathers may not be fully developed so it may be a little slower in flying. Give it a couple more days and it should begin to fly with the rest ...

Mom and Dad left the baby -- Mary -- 28 August 2017

We have a swan that hatched in May or June and the mother and father have both left and this one is not yet flying. Is there something we should do?

Re: Mom and Dad left the baby -- The Regal Swan -- 28 August 2017

Hi Mary Do you know the circumstances of the parent's disappearance? Did you see them take off or were they gone overnight? How long have the parents been gone? We ask because it is getting close to ...

Swan has fishing lure in beak -- Diane -- 25 August 2017

How do you remove a fishing leur from a swan's beak? Couple of town folks want to help swan out tomorrow. Thanks...should call Vet?..or maybe Vet will come out to pond where they are...in town Diane

Re: Swan has fishing lure in beak -- The Regal Swan -- 26 August 2017

Hi Diane Yes, you need to have a licensed veterinarian remove the lure. The lure must be gently removed as the removal can separate or break the bill which could mean the possibility of death to the ...

Lump under chin -- Bonnie -- 25 August 2017

Hello, our female swan has a lump under her chin and I was wondering if you could give me an idea of what this may be and what I need to do? I read on another site that it's very possible that she ...

Re: Lump under chin -- The Regal Swan -- 25 August 2017

Hi Bonnie You need to get her to a licensed veterinarian ASAP. This small lump under the chin could be a puncture wound with something embedded, i.e., pine needle, stick, etc., causing an infection ...

Re: Lump under chin -- Bonnie -- 10 September 2017

Hello, sorry I am very late to read this and respond. We caught her and while my husband held her I lifted her tongue and under it was very short pieces of grass, etc in a wad so with the help of my ...

Re: Lump under chin -- The Regal Swan -- 10 September 2017

Hi Bonnie You are very welcome. Good news that it was only grass. You might still take her to a vet, see if he can clean it out further and may be able to surgically glue the area to prevent the ...

Are swans legal to purchase in NC -- Shelly -- 24 August 2017

We have a large development with a large pond... actually several ponds with fresh water and plenty of fish. We would like to get a mating pair of white swans but not sure where is a good place to go ...

Re: Are swans legal to purchase in NC -- The Regal Swan -- 25 August 2017

Hi Shelly You need to check with your state Wildlife authorities. If you can purchase, you would be better to procure 2 females so you don't have to have a breeder''s license, will not have to worry ...

Eating or neck exercises? -- Annie -- 21 August 2017

Hi, My dad and I were debating the behaviour of one of the parent swans today... it was on land pulling brush from among some shoreline grasses and dumping it next to itself. Some of the stuff it ...

Re: Eating or neck exercises? -- The Regal Swan -- 21 August 2017

Hi Annie Sometimes swans will pull aquatic vegetation in the manner you describe to eat. However, if this is land based reeds/grasses/vegetation, then the swan is just clearing the area. Usually, ...

Re: Eating or neck exercises? -- Annie -- 23 August 2017

That's so strange, but interesting. Thank-you (I actually thought it was building a new nest, despite everything making it illogical for that to be the case)

Re: Eating or neck exercises? -- The Regal Swan -- 23 August 2017

Hi Annie You are very welcome. Glad we could be of assistance. The Regal Swan

Pinioned Mute Swans left our pond. -- Dave -- 18 August 2017

We have a pair of mute swans we purchased for our 1.5 acre pond in S.E. Wisconsin. We acquired them in Spring. We feed them corn about once a day. We were out of town for a few days and when we came ...

Re: Pinioned Mute Swans left our pond. -- The Regal Swan -- 18 August 2017

Hi Dave Any number of things could have caused the swans to leave your pond. The swans may have been looking for you, wanted more food and you were not around or were chased/scared by something, i.e. ...

A new swan in the lake -- Tracey -- 12 August 2017

We have a lake with two mute swans and other ducks and seagulls, we visit the lake every other day. But there is new swan in the lake, and the male swan keeps chasing this new swan that has arrived. ...

Re: A new swan in the lake -- The Regal Swan -- 13 August 2017

Hi Tracey: More than likely, this is a young swan that has been chased from the nesting habitat by its parents in preparation for migration or the upcoming nesting season. Once cygnets (baby swans) ...

Will baby swans, children of parents with wings clipped, ever fly -- Janice -- 12 August 2017

We have two swans on our lake who had three cygnets. Both adult swans had their wings clipped. Will the cygnets learn to fly, since the parents are the only swans on the lake? Thank you.

Re: Will baby swans, children of parents with wings clipped, ever fly -- The Regal Swan -- 13 August 2017

Hi Janice: Usually, it is the parents that teach the young birds how to fly. However, if the cygnets are not pinioned (the flight portion of one wing amputated or the feathers are not clipped), the ...

Lake Depth for Swans -- Bob -- 10 August 2017

We can control the water depth of our artificial lakes. What is a recommended minimum water depth for Mute Swans. Can they get bumble foot if the water is too shallow and the lake bottom is hard?

Re: Lake Depth for Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 11 August 2017

Hi Bob: If the lake bottom is very rocky or has an abrasive substrate, yes the swans can develop bumblefoot. This condition is caused by a staph infection and is very contagious. The major issue is ...

Can a few weeks old cygnet survive without its mother? -- Ashlynn -- 5 August 2017

Hi, We live on the water and have been watching 2 swans for over a year now. This summer they had one little baby. They brought us so much joy. Sadly, the mother was just found dead. The father is ...

Re: Can a few weeks old cygnet survive without its mother? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 August 2017

Hi Ashylnn We are so sorry to hear about the mom swan. The cygnet should still be able to survive as its dad will look after it. Yes, swans usually are ready to go out on their own at approximately 6 ...

Re: Can a few weeks old cygnet survive without its mother? -- Ashlynn -- 10 August 2017

Thank you very much for getting back to me. It brings me some comfort that the baby could survive. Since the accident which happened a week ago now, we have not seen the dad or baby. Could this be ...

Re: Can a few weeks old cygnet survive without its mother? -- The Regal Swan -- 10 August 2017

Hi Ashlynn The dad may have taken the cygnet to another area, possibly which he thinks is much safer. It may take some time, but they may return at a later date. There are no guarantees if the swans ...

Mute Swans mating -- Paul -- 2 August 2017

Hi Seen my pair of mute swans mating; it has been two weeks now and there is no sign of nesting to produce eggs. How long do they start laying eggs after mating? is there any reason for not laying ...

Re: Mute Swans mating -- The Regal Swan -- 3 August 2017

Hi Paul Swans will mate throughout the year as a means for bonding between the pairs. Mute Swans will only produce one clutch of eggs each year. This is not the breeding season for them, so they may ...

Food for swans: Broccoli and Cabbage? -- Nancy -- 1 August 2017

Hi I was wondering is it okay if I feed Gorgeous broccoli and cabbage.

Re: Food for swans: Broccoli and Cabbage? -- The Regal Swan -- 1 August 2017

Hi Nancy Probably not. Swans are picky eaters and look for supplemental vegetation that aligns more with their normal subaquatic vegetation. Leafy lettuce, especially romaine is more suitable for ...

One cygnet is white and the other is grey -- Wendy -- 30 July 2017

We have a pair of swans that have been on our lake for many years. They have not been very successful parents but this year they have raised two cygnets. I am curious about the fact that one of the ...

Re: One cygnet is white and the other is grey -- The Regal Swan -- 31 July 2017

Hi Wendy: All Mute Swans are known scientifically as Cygnus olor or Mute Swans. Swankeepers and scientists refer to them as Royal or Polish Mute Swans. Royal Mute Swans are the traditional color with ...

Found a baby swan floating on its back -- Ryan -- 26 July 2017

So i'm curious, I was out fishing yesterday and stopped at an island. Noticed a baby swan on the waters edge, slowly got closer as to not anger the parents I didn't see yet. The parents never ...

Re: Found a baby swan floating on its back -- The Regal Swan -- 27 July 2017

Hi Ryan There had to be something gravely wrong with the cygnet, i.e., injury or illness (which could explain why it was in an abnormal position--floating on its back). The parents knew something was ...

Blood loss from feather clipping -- Betty -- 24 July 2017

I clipped a swan's wing yesterday and blood was dripping. I don't know how much blood he lost. Then I read the feathers bleeding should have been removed. The swan is in the lake eating today. The ...

Re: Blood loss from feather clipping -- The Regal Swan -- 24 July 2017

Hi Betty Birds can die from blood loss from a broken, bent or cut blood feather, even healthy birds can be affected. You need to capture the swan and get him to an experienced bird veterinarian ASAP. ...

Male Mute Swan appears to have a sore leg -- Anna -- 21 July 2017

Our male mute swan appears to have a sore right leg. He is able to move the leg into the water and also up on his side to rest it. He is eating and doing great otherwise. He does try to put some ...

Re: Male Mute Swan appears to have a sore leg -- The Regal Swan -- 21 July 2017

Hi Anna A long as he is eating, able to get up and down non-steep banks and protective of the family, we would suggest watching him closely for a couple of days to ensure he is not getting worse or ...

Intoduction of yearling -- Tom -- 19 July 2017

We had at one time four three year old Mute Swans on our lake of 4 acres. They had paired then one bird was killed, since then we have had one bird swimming by himself. The pair has gone into ...

Re: Intoduction of yearling -- The Regal Swan -- 19 July 2017

Hi Tom: If all the birds are male, and you introduce a female, you are going to create so many problems that you may wish you never had introduced the female or any other swan. 1. There will be such ...

Re: Intoduction of yearling -- Tom -- 20 July 2017

It has been discussed that we find a home for 2 of the males if indeed they are males, this would leave the male and the newly introduced female. All have been pinioned and vet checked. We have a ...

Re: Intoduction of yearling -- The Regal Swan -- 20 July 2017

Hi Tom In our experience, moving any of swans from an established home is hard on all of the birds due to the separation from members and the habitat that they were raised. Your home is their home. ...

Re: Intoduction of yearling -- Tom -- 4 October 2017

So here are the most recent happenings since our last post We recently sold our largest male to a very nice home and reports have shown he is very eager with amusement with their lone female. So then ...

Re: Intoduction of yearling -- Tom -- 5 October 2017

Today, day two after release. He has finally left fowlcatraz and all are behaving nice to some extent. a few cheap shots being delivered plus a few short lived chases but for the most part they seem ...

Re: Intoduction of yearling -- The Regal Swan -- 5 October 2017

Hi Tom Nice photo, thanks for sharing. You will need to watch the juvenile female as during breeding season she could be seriously injured by the older males. She needs to be at least 2 years of age ...

Re: Intoduction of yearling -- The Regal Swan -- 4 October 2017

Hi Tom Great update. Thanks for taking care of the swans. The Regal Swan

Re: Intoduction of yearling -- Tom -- 11 October 2017

Today soon to be a week out from release with some moments of Harmony. Newest female seems to be quite tolerant of the males short lived abuse. At moments she seems to be shunned from the group. So I ...

Baby swan beak -- Gail -- 17 July 2017

We have baby swans...One has two sores on it's beak which are getting bigger...It does not seem to bother it...What to do ?

Re: Baby swan beak -- The Regal Swan -- 18 July 2017

Hi Gail You need to get him to a veterinarian ASAP. This could be an infection of some kind, i.e., fungal etc., that could spread to other areas of his body and do worse damage to him or spread to ...

Cygnets separated from mother -- Trish -- 16 July 2017

Hi, I was recently on the canals of France in a boat. We watched a swan bring her newborns onto the river. She stayed close to the island where they were hatched and then ventured forth when they are ...

Re: Cygnets separated from mother -- The Regal Swan -- 16 July 2017

Hi Trish: Unfortunately, unless the cygnets are reunited and stay with the mother swan, their chances for survival are not very good. The cygnets must have their parent swan for at least 4-6 months ...

Cygnet legs problem -- Hans -- 9 July 2017

Hello We found a cygnet 5 days ago. It was doing just fine until yesterday, running swimming and eating. It stop standing on it legs. Look's like the legs are going out on the side and using it to ...

Re: Cygnet legs problem -- The Regal Swan -- 10 July 2017

Hi Hans From your description, it sounds like "spraddle or splayed legs", which due to an injury to the legs, causes the legs to go out toward the side. You need to get him immediately to a vet to ...

Baby swan pushed out of family -- Karen -- 9 July 2017

We feed a family with new babies, 5, less than 3 months old. One day we saw family of 4. We noticed they kicked a baby out and now he is hanging by our dock all the time. Why Would they kick him out ...

Re: Baby swan pushed out of family -- The Regal Swan -- 9 July 2017

Hi Karen There may be something wrong with the cygnet and the parents have kept him from the rest of the flock so if he has an illness/disease it does not spread to the rest of the family or that he ...

One of the parent left alone after cygnets die -- Brenda -- 6 July 2017

Why, after the pair have lost their cygnets, one of the pair is left alone?

Re: One of the parent left alone after cygnets die -- The Regal Swan -- 6 July 2017

Hi Brenda Usually, the female swan is responsible for the primary care of the cygnets while the male swan is responsible for the family's protection and will patrol away from the family. If something ...

Swan baby is white, does not seem to have wings -- Nadine -- 4 July 2017

We have a swan in our lagoon with 5 babies that are gray and significantly big. There is another swan couple with a baby that is pure white and does not seem to have wings. Is this baby a different ...

Re: Swan baby is white, does not seem to have wings -- The Regal Swan -- 5 July 2017

Hi Nadine: Mute Swans are known scientifically as Mute Swans (Cygnus olor). However, based upon their coloration, swan keepers will designate them as Royal Mutes or Polish Mutes. Royal Mute Swans ...

Would our lone female mute swan accept new females or a male? -- Craig -- 3 July 2017

I have a 4 year old female mute swan. Her mate was killed last fall. I would like to get one or more female mute swans so she is not alone. Will she accept a new female(s) to her home? Or should I ...

Re: Would our lone female mute swan accept new females or a male? -- The Regal Swan -- 4 July 2017

Hi Craig There are no guarantees that she will re-pair with another swan. Usually, females will re-pair, but it is a totally individual attribute. If you do not want to be responsible for cygnets ...

Flooded Nest, Thousand Islands -- Wayne -- 1 July 2017

Hi We have a pair of mute swans in our bay. This is their third year nesting here. This year our water levels are record highs. Everything under water including the nest she was sitting on. She had ...

Re: Flooded Nest, Thousand Islands -- The Regal Swan -- 1 July 2017

Hi Wayne Yes, there is still a chance they could lay more eggs. However, it is getting late in the season and once the hormone levels go back to normal, the less chance more eggs will be laid this ...

Cygnet kidnap -- Alan -- 24 June 2017

Dear swan expert, There has been a major international incident on the dart near Tuckenhay, Totnes. We have two local swans on the river, Victoria and Albert. This year they only produced a single ...

Re: Cygnet kidnap -- The Regal Swan -- 24 June 2017

Hi Alan: Is this the first cygnet that the "royal couple" have had? If so, then these are very young parents that have no clue how to take care of a cygnet. Geese on the other hand will actually ...

Re: Cygnet kidnap -- Alan -- 25 June 2017

Many thanks for the reply, that's good news! I don't think they are young swans, they had 3 cygnets last year. This absconder was the only survivor of a clutch of 3 eggs. Thanks again for replying ...

Re: Cygnet kidnap -- The Regal Swan -- 25 June 2017

Hi Alan You are very welcome. Seems like the cygnet is a strong willed little bird. Should do very well. If you have a photo of the strange family, we would love to see it. Many thanks for sharing ...

Disappearing swans -- Carol -- 22 June 2017

We have been watching a family of swans for some time. There were two adults and 7 Cygnets. The babies are now the size of full grown mallards, but they don't have flight feathers yet. Last week one ...

Re: Disappearing swans -- The Regal Swan -- 24 June 2017

Hi Carol: Yes, swans will call out for the other swans. If a wild predator, raccoon, coyote, etc., did not take the family, then you have to look at your state and federal wildlife officials for the ...

One of my swans died -- Lyda -- 22 June 2017

I had a pair of swans on my residential pond. One of them has been killed. Can I get a full grown swan to introduce to that one so it won't be alone?

Re: One of my swans died -- The Regal Swan -- 23 June 2017

Hi Lisa Your swan will be just fine on its own, especially if there are other waterfowl such as ducks, geese, egrets, herons etc. Swans may or may not re-pair with another swan once their mate dies. ...

Cygnets disappearing -- Carol -- 22 June 2017

I live in a senior gated development. We have fresh lakes. A swan couple had at least 7 cygnets hatch. When they were a couple days old, the swans moved them to a different part of the lake. Seven ...

Re: Cygnets disappearing -- The Regal Swan -- 22 June 2017

Hi Carol: First, we have to ask if someone maintaining the grounds might be taking the cygnets to control the population? Have you asked: "If management endorses the swans having cygnets? Is ...

Broken wing -- Georgia -- 21 June 2017

The male swan that lives on our golf course has a broken wing. We think he was hit with a golf club, as he is aggressive toward the golfers. Can the wing be fixed?

Re: Broken wing -- The Regal Swan -- 21 June 2017

Hi Georgia You need to get him to a licensed veterinarian experienced in birds and/or waterfowl to have him examined and x-rayed. This is the only way to determine if the wing can be saved, but must ...

Swan Feed -- Jody -- 21 June 2017

I have seen different types of feed for swans. One includes whole corn kernels. Another doesn't have corn, and I add coarsely ground corn. Which is better? Can swans easily digest whole kernels of ...

Re: Swan Feed -- The Regal Swan -- 21 June 2017

Hi Jody Swans need a diet of 50% cracked corn and 50% poultry layer pellet with an offering of lettuce. Whole kernel, also known as deer corn is hard to swallow for some birds, especially cygnets. ...

swan -- cheryl -- 20 June 2017

a swan has lost its barings so how do we get it to fly again

Re: swan -- The Regal Swan -- 20 June 2017

Hi Cheryl Please contact Wendy Hermon at Swan Support in Datchet, UK. Her phone number is 44 7572 45 0967 Wendy should be able to offer some assistance or provide you with a contact in your area. The ...

Swans remain on the grass, never go in the water -- Tracy -- 19 June 2017

At a nearby pond there are a pair of swans and a tiny cygnet. I've noticed that all 3 of them are never in the water they are always on the grass near the car park. Is this normal? Or is there ...

Re: Swans remain on the grass, never go in the water -- The Regal Swan -- 19 June 2017

Hi Tracy The swans should go in the water. There may be predators such as mink, otter or turtles that may be harmful to the cygnet. In any case, this situation needs to be checked out. Please contact ...

Cygnet swan leg defect, athropy, sling for cygnet -- Robin -- 19 June 2017

We recently purchased 2 swans supposedly 8 weeks old (more like 4 weeks) and one had a birth defect. We could not bring ourselves to send if back (THEY'D DESTROY IT) SO A VERY GOOD VET HELPED US OUT ...

Re: Cygnet swan leg defect, athropy, sling for cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 19 June 2017

Hi Robin: We are working on a prototype for a sling, but nothing the size of a cygnet at this time. Actually, if the veterinarian agrees, the cygnet needs to exercise the leg or it can become ...

Single swan keeps head under the water for up to 5 min. -- Jackie -- 15 June 2017

I live next to a small pond in Toronto. Previous years there have been swan mates. This year there is a single swan. It spends a lot of time with its head stuck under the water, for up to 5 min. ...

Re: Single swan keeps head under the water for up to 5 min. -- The Regal Swan -- 15 June 2017

Hi Jackie As long as the swan lifts its head normally while swimming around the pond, this is normal. Swans feed below the water. So, this would be a normal feeding behavior. If the Swan cannot hold ...

Nesting female died leaving male swan alone with eggs -- Elizabeth -- 15 June 2017

Hi there, We have swans in a pond on my company's property. The female was attacked by a fox (we think) and the male is now alone sitting on the eggs. Will he continue to incubate the eggs and if so, ...

Re: Nesting female died leaving male swan alone with eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 15 June 2017

Hi Elizabeth: Are you sure that the female was the one killed? Normally, male swans, depending on individual swans and species, will not incubate the eggs. So, if this is the male swan, it will be ...

Re: Nesting female died leaving male swan alone with eggs -- Elizabeth -- 16 June 2017

Thank you for your response! I am positive it was the female who was attacked. The male swan was just introduced to the female less than a month ago. The female had been without a mate for a few ...

Re: Nesting female died leaving male swan alone with eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 16 June 2017

Hi Elizabeth Hopefully, this swan will stay with the eggs and cygnets once they hatch. Again, there are no guarantees with a male swan. The nest should be enclosed top to bottom (so nothing can climb ...

Do swans move from lake to lake? -- Sue -- 15 June 2017

We have a family of swans on our lake and we haven't seen them for three days... Do swans move from lake to lake? We have lots of lakes in close proximity... less than half a mile away. The babies ...

Re: Do swans move from lake to lake? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 June 2017

Hi Sue: Yes, swans move from lake to lake. However, this may not be the actual reason you are missing swans. Michigan and other states are killing entire Mute Swan families so that they can use their ...

Will a deceased swan float? -- Kara -- 11 June 2017

Will a deceased swan float? I heard a story regarding a swan receiving a head injury which caused it's death, resulting in the swan sinking. I know other water fowl do not sink when deceased. I'm ...

Re: Will a deceased swan float? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2017

Hi Kara Swans and other waterfowl can float or sink after death depending upon the injury. Birds have air sacs in their lungs which can facilitate floating after death. However, drowning--causing the ...

Swan bill is covered with dark spots -- Anita -- 11 June 2017

Hello, I watch swim wild swans in a local pond. Recently the male swan has developed some black stuff on his bill. Is this a fungus or something to be concerned about? Or\if it is some algae stuck ...

Re: Swan bill is covered with dark spots -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2017

Hi Anita No, this is a beat up swan. It either was in a fight with another swan or something else or scraped it's bill on something incurring bloody scrapes. The bill will heal. More than likely, ...

Re: Swan bill is covered with dark spots -- Anita -- 12 June 2017

Thank you. I'll keep watching the swan to make sure he heals. I'm not sure I can keep him away from any territorial battles. Nesting season is a tough time to secure their place. This pair have 7 ...

Re: Swan bill is covered with dark spots -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 12 June 2017

Hi Anita: You are very welcome. Please feel free to contact us anytime with future questions concerns. The Regal Swan

Fighting male swan keeps mother away from the cygnets -- Margaret -- 9 June 2017

Hello, I have a pair of mute swan for 8 years. They have mated 6 times and produced many cygnets. This year we have 8. However, for some reason this year, the male swan is beating the female. He will ...

Re: Fighting male swan keeps mother away from the cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 10 June 2017

Hi Margaret: There may be something wrong with the female, i.e., sick or injured. You need to catch her and have a licensed avian (bird) or waterfowl vet check her blood chemistry to insure she does ...

Troubles at the Pond -- Len -- 7 June 2017

I live in a gated community with a nice pond with a water feature. Two ducks have lived at the pond for a number of years (one white & one mallard). I don't knew the gender of either. Recently we ...

Re: Troubles at the Pond -- The Regal Swan -- 8 June 2017

Hi Len The first question would be "why the need to increase the population"? Is it for aesthetics or an actual scientific reason that the population needs to be increased? The next questions would ...

Need to find a vet who specializes in swans (Florida) -- Linda -- 2 June 2017

On Tuesday, June 6, we will be picking up 2 new swan at Tampa airport. They will need vaccines and other work done. Dr. Geoffrey Gardener was the last vet we used for our swan. Can you recommend a ...

Re: Need to find a vet who specializes in swans (Florida) -- The Regal Swan -- 3 June 2017

Hi Linda You can contact Dr. Gardner at the Boyette Animal Hospital in Riverview, FL near Tampa. You might be able to call him and get an appointment time after the pick-up on Tuesday. The Regal Swan

Flooring for a swan enclosure -- Katherine -- 1 June 2017

My husband and I are setting up a special swan enclosure and need to know what you recommend that we use on the floor of the enclosure. It is the size of a 14 by 14 square foot horse stall and ...

Re: Flooring for a swan enclosure -- The Regal Swan -- 2 June 2017

Hi Katherine You can use straw that must be mucked on a daily basis to prevent pests such as ants and mice. Although the cygnet needs water to bathe and drink, it cannot have an unsupervised water ...

Splayed legs -- Marilyn -- 30 May 2017

My male swan was attacked by coyotes. He is doing well on baytril twice dailey. He is in a large dog run out by the lake. His family comes and sits by him three times a day. The vet did exrays and ...

Re: Splayed legs -- The Regal Swan -- 31 May 2017

Hi Marilyn The Swan needs to be placed in water, i.e., a small bin etc., and see if his legs work normally. The vet also might need to use a hobble to get the legs to go back in place, although there ...

Swan not eating or drinking -- Rick -- 30 May 2017

We have a local Swan on our lake. For the last couple days it has not eaten or drank anything. What might cause this ?

Re: Swan not eating or drinking -- The Regal Swan -- 31 May 2017

Hi Rick: If the swan is going in circles and not eating or drinking, it has nothing to do with grief. Birds and animals are not wired to grieve, but to continue to perpetuate the flock and species. ...

Re: Swan not eating or drinking -- Rick -- 31 May 2017

Our swan also just lost its eggs from some animal, she just swims in circles and is acting very strange again not eating or drinking. Someone told us she might be grieving from losing her eggs ? If ...

Re: Swan not eating or drinking -- The Regal Swan -- 30 May 2017

Hi Rick: Is the swan nesting? If so, it may not be leaving the nest except for short periods of time. Are you constantly watching the swan, even at night? If not, more than likely it is feeding and ...

Cygnet not keeping up with family -- Marie -- 28 May 2017

We have a pair of very attentive black swans who have 4 cygnets - 5 weeks old. The parents have fussed over the one which is at the waters edge - not moving much. It seems to be the same size as ...

Re: Cygnet not keeping up with family -- The Regal Swan -- 29 May 2017

Hi Marie: We would suggest that all members of the swan family (all cygnets and parents) be brought inside for 48 hours. This will provide you a chance to see if there is something wrong with the ...

Alpha swans -- Andrew -- 27 May 2017

Is there an alpha swan in a bevy of swans?????

Re: Alpha swans -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2017

Hi Andrew: Absolutely. The Regal Swan

Incubated cygnets -- Michael -- 26 May 2017

Incubated cygnets: how to treat and feed

Re: Incubated cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 27 May 2017

Hi Michael: If you are not familiar with young cygnets, this is going to be a learning experience and almost unsurmountable task pf being able to keep them alive. Young cygnets need their parents to ...

Swan just left nest with babies -- Lisa -- 26 May 2017

Hi - quick question - our local swan has just this afternoon moved off the nest, taking cygnets on their first outing - do they go back to the nest, or once they've left it's for good? (I'd like to ...

The cob pecks at one of her 2 cygnets -- Betty -- 24 May 2017

One of our pairs of white mute has 2 cygnets and are first time parents. One is smaller and the cob pecks at it. Is this because something could be wrong with the baby or is the cob trying to destroy ...

Re: The cob pecks at one of her 2 cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 25 May 2017

Hi Betty: Since these are new parents, there is a chance that they have no idea what they are doing with cygnets and the chances of survival are decreased the first year. Now, having said this, some ...

For baby swans born one week ago: size of water container -- Katherine -- 24 May 2017

Hi, I need to know what size of water container I need to have to satisfy the needs of two swans at this young age. Currently, we are using a small plastic bin and are setting them in that container ...

Re: For baby swans born one week ago: size of water container -- The Regal Swan -- 25 May 2017

Hi Katherine: You need to use a small rubbermaid container or such with a depth of water approximately 5 inches until the cygnets get larger and then you can add more water. The cygnets should be ...

Swan on nest in Hot sun -- Belinda -- 24 May 2017

We have a swan nesting on the lake at work, she is in the full sun and panting...her partner is off across the lake feeding etc... will she be ok?

Re: Swan on nest in Hot sun -- The Regal Swan -- 24 May 2017

Hi Belinda Yes, she will be fine. The male will stay near the nest while she takes a break. So, once she needs to take the break, she will let the male know. The Regal Swan

Re: Swan on nest in Hot sun -- Belinda -- 25 May 2017

Thank you so much for the answer you gave me about the Swan sitting in full sun panting! One more question... how long does it take for the eggs to hatch? she appears to have been sitting at least 5 ...

Re: Swan on nest in Hot sun -- The Regal Swan -- 25 May 2017

Hi Belinda: You are very welcome. Eggs usually hatch between 35-45 days. Do not worry, the female swan will not stay on the nest if the eggs area not viable. So, the eggs should start hatching ...

Incest in swans? -- Ruth -- 22 May 2017

Hi, I have been looking after a pair of wild mute swans for 8 years and my female died in March. I think she was getting old and had become very weak. She and her mate raised 5 cygnets the first year ...

Re: Incest in swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 22 May 2017

Hi Ruth: Yes, inbreeding does occur in swans and birds in general. When mammals inbreed, there is a greater chance of genetic abnormalities such as extra or lack of limbs, etc. However, in swans ...

Old remaining feathers on young swan -- Tony -- 21 May 2017

Hi A young swan, probably a signet last year, is now in full adult plumage, however it still has the remains of what appear to old wings, just the quills, if that is the correct term, sticking out ...

Re: Old remaining feathers on young swan -- The Regal Swan -- 21 May 2017

Hi Tony Yes, the swans will either pull the old feathers out or the feathers will work their way out by themselves. If the entire wing is comprised of the quills and the feathers appear backwards, ...

Swan on empty nest -- Karen -- 21 May 2017

Hello, my swans were flooded out again this year, twice. However, they built a new nest last week. It is empty, but she comes and sits on it anyway (briefly). t is very late in the season, so I don't ...

Re: Swan on empty nest -- Karen -- 22 May 2017

Thank you. I have not yet seen "new" eggs in this new nest. It is totally empty. I thought perhaps she was lamenting on her lost eggs (from her previous nest locations WHICH WERE IN A ...

Re: Swan on empty nest -- The Regal Swan -- 23 May 2017

Hi Karen: Thanks for the update. Please let us know if she hatches a new brood. The Regal Swan

Re: Swan on empty nest -- The Regal Swan -- 21 May 2017

Hi Karen: Sometimes, female swans will (double clutch), lay another set of eggs should something happen to the first eggs. She may or may not lay the exact number to replace, but lay 1-2 on the new ...

Male swan taken two week old cygnets away -- Christine -- 21 May 2017

Hi, our resident female swan lost her partner last winter but found another. They had seven cygnets two weeks ago. Yesterday after being together in the morning, the female has stayed on our small ...

Re: Male swan taken two week old cygnets away -- The Regal Swan -- 21 May 2017

Hi Christine: Normally, it is the mother that takes the cygnets around the habitat, not the male swan. However, if she needed a rest, the male may have taken them to the other side. If there is ...

Lone swan -- Stephanie -- 20 May 2017

For the past two weeks I have drove by this Pond that has a single Swan by itself. It's in the same spot every time kind of looking around. Is this normal?

Re: Lone swan -- The Regal Swan -- 20 May 2017

Hi Stephanie: You might not see the second swan as it may be taking a break from a nest. Nesting may be the obvious answer to seeing the swan in the same location continuously. If there is no nest, ...

Female Swan has been replaced -- Jennifer -- 18 May 2017

Hi, I find this so sad, we have had a pair of swans for 9 years, mum has given us many signets at least 8 a year, this year expecting her to bring them round as she normally does this time of year, ...

Re: Female Swan has been replaced -- The Regal Swan -- 18 May 2017

Hi Jennifer: Although swans usually mate for life, individual species and swans may not adhere to this behavior. If something is wrong with one or the other swan, i.e., illness, injury, inability to ...

Re: Female Swan has been replaced -- Jennifer -- 19 May 2017

Hi, Thank you for your reply, Mum swan was ringed several years ago, Dad has such a large cob couldn't mistake him, the new swan has a smaller cob like mum, she isn't ill or injured thank goodness , ...

Re: Female Swan has been replaced -- The Regal Swan -- 20 May 2017

Hi Jennifer: We are not sure of your location, but if you live in the U.K., you might try to contact RSPCA or Wendy Hermon at Swan Support in Datchet, U.K. There is a possibility that the female swan ...

One male with 2 females -- Helen -- 16 May 2017

Hi, in our local park, Dublin, Ireland, there is one male swan with 2 females and 2 nests. One hatched 9 cygnets 4 weeks ago, 7 left and doing well. Mum and dad raising them together. The other ...

Re: One male with 2 females -- The Regal Swan -- 16 May 2017

Hi Helen: Usually, swans mate for life, however, there are some exceptions. We have had heard from noted swan specialists that male swans will sometimes nest with two females at the same time, but ...

Sex typing cygnets -- Don -- 15 May 2017

How soon after cygnets are hatched can you sex type them? Is it possible for an inexperienced person and not a veterinarian to sex type young cygnets? If so, how?

Re: Sex typing cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 16 May 2017

Hi Don If you are speaking about probing, this is the least reliable method of sexing as the sex organs are not fully developed until the cygnets turn one year of age. The most reliable method is ...

Missing swans -- Paula -- 15 May 2017

We have for years two swans on our pond. Day before mother day the mother and five pups were swing around dad near by. Mother's Day they were all missing .gone the pond is in ma. Do you know why this ...

Re: Missing swans -- The Regal Swan -- 15 May 2017

Hi Paula The cygnets and parents may have gone to another pond or an area farther away from your section of the habitat. Parents will move the cygnets around to teach them about their habitat and to ...

Swan shaking its head -- Linda -- 14 May 2017

Should a swan keep shaking it's head then put it's head in it's wings all the time.

Re: Swan shaking its head -- The Regal Swan -- 14 May 2017

Hi Linda: Is the swan shaking its head after it has been in the water or this consistent behavior? If this is consistent behavior, regardless of swimming or getting wet, the swan may have an ear ...

Swan behaviour -- Aubrey -- 14 May 2017

Can you please explain to me , if a number of swans skim the lake to get from one end to another, part fly but slap the water with the feet , some times for 300 m Is it to show Domination of the lake ...

Re: Swan behaviour -- The Regal Swan -- 14 May 2017

Hi Aubrey: If the swans cannot fly (pinioned), they may not get enough lift off the water to fly at a higher level to get from one area to another. If there are other swans at the end of the lake ...

Baby swans disappearing -- Jan -- 13 May 2017

2 adults swans initially had 3 babies in our pond which is not very deep. Last week we only saw 2 and now today there's only one left! What could be happening to them and should I notify our local ...

Re: Baby swans disappearing -- The Regal Swan -- 13 May 2017

Hi Jan: Unfortunately, this is nature. There are many reasons for the missing cygnets. One would be predators, i.e., egrets, herons, turtles, large fish, owls, hawks, raccoons, coyotes, alligators, ...

2 swans keep nesting near water-line -- Laura -- 13 May 2017

We have 2 swans that live in our lagoon/canal. They have been building nests and the nests keep getting wiped out by high tides, nor'easter, full moon, etc. Same for last season, they never had ...

Re: 2 swans keep nesting near water-line -- The Regal Swan -- 13 May 2017

Hi Laura: There are only two things that can be done to solve this situation. Either build up the current area or try to entice them to another area which has higher ground. Unfortunately, swans and ...

Marking a swan with dye/paint -- Dan -- 11 May 2017

I live in Michigan of a small lake. We have several mute swans that nest here each year. Mute swans are not protected in Michigan - they are not native and officially are an "invasive ...

Re: Marking a swan with dye/paint -- The Regal Swan -- 11 May 2017

Hi Dan: We feel for you. Unfortunately, all the information that the Michigan DNR and other state and federal wildlife officials have been saying about the Mute Swans are downright false. The swans ...

Swan hearing -- Ann -- 11 May 2017

Hi- I am a second grade teacher helping a student do research on Trumpeter Swans. How well do Trumpeter Swans hear? Is it a specialized adaptation?

Re: Swan hearing -- The Regal Swan -- 11 May 2017

Hi Ann: All swans (basically all birds), regardless of species have very well-developed hearing to alert them to predators, wildlife and other swans in the area. Birds do not have a well developed ...

Orphaned cygnet does not eat -- Tracy -- 9 May 2017

Hello. I am a wildlife rehabilitator in the US. I am unfamiliar with swans, but have a great deal of knowledge with geese and ducks. I've been given a cygnet 1 week old. I need to know what to feed ...

Re: Orphaned cygnet does not eat -- The Regal Swan -- 9 May 2017

Hi Tracy: The cygnets do not know how to get their food from the water as the mother swan brings the food to the surface. So, here is what you do. Take a very shallow pan or a thick lid to a pan/can. ...

Re: Orphaned cygnet does not eat -- Tracy -- 10 May 2017

Thank you so much for this information. I have one question, why would this guy need to be pinioned? Since I am a rehabber we are always thinking about releasing our patients once they can survive on ...

Re: Orphaned cygnet does not eat -- The Regal Swan -- 10 May 2017

Hi Tracy Sorry to hear about the second cygnet. Because the cygnet is so young, you cannot release it until it is approximately 8-10 months of age. By that time, it will be more comfortable around ...

Re: Orphaned cygnet does not eat -- Tracy -- 15 May 2017

Thank you again for this valuable information. I took him to our wildlife vet last week. He has splayed leg so we have his legs hobbled. Now I have another concern. He does not eat unless I've put ...

Re: Orphaned cygnet does not eat -- The Regal Swan -- 15 May 2017

Hi Tracy: Cygnets cry constantly looking for mother. You are now its mother, so just touch him and speak to him so that he knows you are nearby. The crying sounding more like a meep meep is the ...

Re: Orphaned cygnet does not eat -- Tracy -- 16 May 2017

That's a relief. I do notice the crying stops when I speak to him. The constant meep meep is too adorable to be annoying. Thanks again. Tracy

Re: Orphaned cygnet does not eat -- The Regal Swan -- 16 May 2017

Hi Tracy Yes, it is cute and serves the purpose of letting the mother swan know the location of the cygnet. Since you are now mom, speaking to the bird calms him down and let's him know you are ...

Swan - heavy metal poisoning -- India -- 9 May 2017

I am writing an assignment and struggling to find any info to help me. I need to know all about a wildlife centre caring for a swan with this condition. The temperatures it should be placed in, how ...

Re: Swan - heavy metal poisoning -- The Regal Swan -- 9 May 2017

Hi India Please contact Wendy Hermon at Swan Support in Datchet, U.K. She constantly deals with this issue and can provide you with the information you are requesting. The Regal Swan

Nest with one egg pushed out -- Anne -- 8 May 2017

WE work in, and keep an eye on a corporate building with pond. The Mute Swan pair have brought 2 cygnets every Spring. This year I have noticed the enclosed pen for Mother Swan is higher elevation, ...

Re: Nest with one egg pushed out -- The Regal Swan -- 9 May 2017

Hi Anne Yes, female swans will take a break from the nest to bathe, eat and drink while the male swan watches the nest. The female will take the cygnets down to the water to eat and drink ...

Bow -- Kathleen -- 6 May 2017

Why does the male swan bow to the female

Re: Bow -- The Regal Swan -- 7 May 2017

Hi Kathleen: We're not sure that the male swan bows to the female. Actually, the behavior you are seeing would be a dipping of the heads into the water prior to mating and this occurs by both swans ...

Getting 2 sets of swans for the same pound -- Adora -- 6 May 2017

I have 1 swan and am looking to get a mate for it but was also thinking of getting a second set . would 2 sets of swans fight in if in the same pond?

Re: Getting 2 sets of swans for the same pound -- The Regal Swan -- 7 May 2017

Hi Adora: Yes, two more swans would cause great problems for you and the swan that you now maintain. Additionally, there are no guarantees that your swan will accept another swan especially if it is ...

Swan nest on pond on golf course -- Mary -- 6 May 2017

The nest seems to have been abandoned with three eggs. There was a swan fight and a swan was killed. It had not been tagged and I think it was trying to take over territory. Would that cause nest to ...

Re: Swan nest on pond on golf course -- The Regal Swan -- 7 May 2017

Hi Mary: Yes, this fight with subsequent death of one of the swans could cause an abandonment of the nest if the nesting pair was caught in a territorial fight. The Regal Swan

Eggs Lost From Rising Water -- Sherree -- 2 May 2017

Hi...we have a pair of swans across the street from us in a small pond. Every year we have enjoyed the baby cygnets the two of them proudly put on display in that pond after they've hatched. This ...

Re: Eggs Lost From Rising Water -- The Regal Swan -- 3 May 2017

Hi Sherree: There is still a possibility that the eggs are okay and the parents are just taking a rest from the nest. If they do not return to the nest to sit, then you can safely assume that the ...

Re: Eggs Lost From Rising Water -- Sherree -- 3 May 2017

Thank you for your reply. We have not seen them return to their nest as it was a mess. They had an offspring from last years clutch that has stayed with them since it was hatched. Once they built ...

Re: Eggs Lost From Rising Water -- The Regal Swan -- 4 May 2017

Hi Shearer You are very welcome. As unfortunate for the loss, hopefully it is a learning experience so the swans will build higher and drier next nesting season. Glad the family is doing well. The ...

Our nesting female swan was killed this morning, leaving 4 eggs -- Alice -- 2 May 2017

Victoria II, RIP 5-2-17 I live in central Florida. Our nesting female was killed this morning between 6:30 and 7:20 am. I found her on my bank with her head torn from her body. Feathers wervhe around ...

Re: Our nesting female swan was killed this morning, leaving 4 eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 2 May 2017

Hi Alice: If the head/neck was stripped it was either a coyote, fox, bobcat or panther. You need to find the male swan and bring him in (shed, garage, or other safe area free from any dangerous ...

Re: Our nesting female swan was killed this morning, leaving 4 eggs -- Alice -- 9 May 2017

Thank you for your information and advice. Albert II is on our lake with the two cygnets he and Victoria II had last year. I don't know that we will have funds to provide an enclosure. Albert II is ...

Re: Our nesting female swan was killed this morning, leaving 4 eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 9 May 2017

Hi Alice Thanks for sharing. Albert II will be fine and will resume eating soon. Nature does not allow animals or birds to grieve for long periods of time as this would be detrimental to the entire ...

Two swans trying to attack nesting swan and steal nest -- Tara -- 2 May 2017

We have nesting swans outside of our office window and been watching mummy swan nesting with her eggs for the past month or so. Recently two other swans have encroached on their territory. Today, two ...

Re: Two swans trying to attack nesting swan and steal nest -- Lauren -- 11 May 2017

We are having the same thing. Happening right now. As of this morning the male swan is gone. (I'm sure b/c of attacking swans) And the nearby family is attacking the nesting mom who has 8, 1 day old ...

Re: Two swans trying to attack nesting swan and steal nest -- The Regal Swan -- 11 May 2017

Hi Lauren: Is there any means to chase the two swans from the area or separate the lake/nest from the other swans? If not, there is not much you can do. Hopefully, the male swan will return to ...

Re: Two swans trying to attack nesting swan and steal nest -- The Regal Swan -- 2 May 2017

Hi Tara In order to ensure the safety of all swans, please contact Wendy Herman at Swan Support (Datchet, UK) to see if she may be able to help or advise who you may contact. The Regal Swan

Swan egg disappeared -- Betty -- 30 April 2017

One pair swans have been sitting on a clutch of 5 eggs due to hatch next week but last night an egg disappeared. I've been hanging wolf urine vials and sprinkling dried wolf urine around the nest. No ...

Re: Swan egg disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 1 May 2017

Hi Betty Yes, if something is wrong with an egg, the parents will kick it out of the nest and even push it out into the water (if water is nearby, so the rotten egg does not attract pests or ...

1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- Steve -- 30 April 2017

Years past, there have been 2 swans in pond. They had babies last year. 1 of the 2 adults left last year. Not been spotted since.The old nest area, the 1 adult swan recently has been sitting there as ...

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- The Regal Swan -- 30 April 2017

Hi Steve: Something may have happened to the swan's original mate, but he/she is still returning to the same spot for this year's nesting season, or it is a juvenile swan that is trying to establish ...

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- Steve -- 2 May 2017

Thank you for the reply! He or she has been sitting at the old nest area it seems all week, alone.

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- The Regal Swan -- 3 May 2017

Hi Steve: You are very welcome. Have you checked the nest to see if there are eggs under the swan? If there are, the swan may stand up to protect them as you near the nest. If you can't see eggs, ...

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- Steve -- 14 May 2017

Hello. The 1 lone swan has been sitting at the old nest area for at least 2 weeks. Head down when I see it. Every time I drive by, it is in exact same spot, position. 1 time I saw the head go up. I ...

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- The Regal Swan -- 14 May 2017

Hi Steve: Not sure what is occurring. If you are not watching the swan for a length of time (consistently 2-3 hours), then it is hard to tell if she might be leaving the nest to eat, drink and bathe. ...

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- Steve -- 16 May 2017

Someone else I know goes by this swan at a different time of day and sees it sitting in exact same spot.

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- The Regal Swan -- 16 May 2017

Hi Steve: Not much we can add to this situation. Either the swan is going to hatch out cygnets and/or leave the nest when they do not hatch, or she is going to die if there is something wrong with ...

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- Steve -- 14 May 2017

I only see the swan for a few seconds every day. Exact spot for past 2 weeks. No, I can not get close. I'll let you know if there is a change. Thanks for your help!! Steve

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- Steve -- 25 May 2017

At least 3 weeks later, the swan is still in same place! Only difference I see is she (or he) now has its head up more. Before seemed always down.

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- Steve -- 10 June 2017

Latest is the swan was at same spot for approx. 1 month, now has disappeared. Any thoughts?

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- The Regal Swan -- 10 June 2017

Hi Steve Either bird was not feeling well and took some time to recoup before traveling on, eggs hatched and family left the nest or eggs were not viable and swan left the nest. If the swan does not ...

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- Steve -- 10 June 2017

The mate left about a year ago. So, is it possible the lone swan was sitting at the nest area for 1 month without eggs thinking there are eggs there?? Seems a little strange. Thanks

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2017

Hi Steve During nesting season, female swans, due to sex hormone levels, can lay eggs although obviously infertile. So, the female swan may have laid eggs and then when nothing was viable, left the ...

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- Steve -- 16 June 2017

Thanks!!

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- The Regal Swan -- 17 June 2017

Hi Steve You are very welcome. The Regal Swan

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- Steve -- 1 July 2017

Has not returned. In fact, I see no wildlife there! Steve

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- The Regal Swan -- 1 July 2017

Hi Steve Thanks for the update. Swan probably moved on to a habitat with better food resources. If you are not seeing any wildlife/waterfowl, could mean that your area only serves as a stopover site ...

Re: 1 mute swan sitting at old nest -- The Regal Swan -- 27 May 2017

Hi Steve: At least this is a small change. Maybe, if it is sitting on a nest, the eggs are ready to hatch or have already. If there was something wrong with the swan, then maybe its health has ...

Need help bonding with our new swans and getting them to eat out of their feeder -- Ann -- 28 April 2017

Hello. We just bought a pair of Swans. They are 3 years old. Sarah and Abraham the breeder delivered them and released them directly into our pond. We have a floater and have attached the feeder to ...

Re: Need help bonding with our new swans and getting them to eat out of their feeder -- The Regal Swan -- 30 April 2017

Hi Ann: When introducing a pair of swans to a new habitat, they should always be placed in an introductory pen. The pen should be 1/2 on the bank and 1/2 in the water with a zero entrance (no steep ...

Injured swan? -- norway.swan -- 27 April 2017

Hi, there's a young swan (adult sized but still spots of brown feather) near my house where it's been lingering for several weeks, and I wonder if he's just young and recently separated from his ...

Re: Injured swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 27 April 2017

Hi Yes, you need to contact wildlife authorities as the bird needs water. If the swan cannot fly or escape a predator, it is also.in danger of being attacked. The Regal Swan

Swan habit -- Emily -- 26 April 2017

What does a swan do during the day time and night time?

Swan leaving eggs -- Hillers -- 25 April 2017

Hi, Mum has been sitting on several eggs since Sunday but today both mum and dad had left the nest. Is this because it has turned cold?

Re: Swan leaving eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 25 April 2017

Hi: The swan parents will leave the nest periodically for short periods to take a rest, bathe, eat and drink. Once all eggs are laid and incubation begins, especially when hatching is imminent, the ...

Swan left family -- Rob -- 24 April 2017

We have a family of 6 Swans and one of them has recently left. We saw one that we believe to the him/her in a field about a mile away from the ponds that the reside in. Will the swan return to it's ...

Re: Swan left family -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2017

Hi Rob: It is now time for last year's cygnets to be chased from the habitat by their parents and find another habitat as well as a future mate. So, yes, the swan should be fine. He/she should begin ...

Male swan mean to female swan -- Teresa -- 23 April 2017

Hello! There are two swans at a lake we camp at all summer. One of them is tagged and was actually released here two years ago. The two swans have gotten along great the last month or so since they ...

Re: Male swan mean to female swan -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2017

Hi Teresa: The swan pictured is a Trumpeter Swan, the largest of all swan species and the most defensive. In fact, it does not belong in Maryland, but federal and Maryland state wildlife officials ...

Blindness in swans -- Mitch -- 20 April 2017

What could have caused my swans to go blind. Last August 2016 I noticed my female black neck swan swimming in tight clockwise circles. She was on a small pond with her mate and I was able to catch ...

Re: Blindness in swans -- The Regal Swan -- 20 April 2017

Hi Mitchell We consulted with one of our swan veterinarians, Dr. Geoffrey Gardner. He stated that this is difficult to say whether it is a severe case of conjunctivitis or injury. The only way to ...

Re: Blindness in swans -- Mitch Gibbs -- 20 April 2017

Thanks for the reply. Seems unlikely that two different swans would suffer injuries to both eyes, but yes there are turtles present, and plants growing on the banks, but no metal that I know of. ...

Re: Blindness in swans -- The Regal Swan -- 20 April 2017

Hi Mitchell Actually, the Black Necked Swan looks like it had cataracts which can cause blindness. The cygnets eyes look like an injury or infection. Yes, lead poisoning and moldy food can cause ...

2015 Mute Swan Cygnet -- Henry -- 19 April 2017

We have a Swan Cygnet in our Loch here in Scotland that was the only survivor of a 2015 brood of five Cygnets and has never left.This year we thought it would leave with the the three Cygnets of ...

Re: 2015 Mute Swan Cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 19 April 2017

Hi Henry: We are assuming that nothing has happened to the male and it is still in the area. If so, then probably the cygnet is a female and is not seen as a threat to the family. Usually, the ...

Re: 2015 Mute Swan Cygnet -- Henry -- 20 April 2017

Thanks for your reply, The male swan is still here. There is a change in the Pen`s attitude to the younger bird this morning and she is chasing it away from the nest. Thanks once again. Henry

Re: 2015 Mute Swan Cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 20 April 2017

Hi Henry You are very welcome. Thanks for the update. The Regal Swan

Swan nests, eggs disappear -- Sharon -- 19 April 2017

Hi my name is Sharon and i have been following a pair named Bogie and Bacall for a year. I got town involved in cleaning up pollution bottles and other un mentionables tires etc! Spring rains came ...

Re: Swan nests, eggs disappear -- The Regal Swan -- 19 April 2017

Hi Sharon: The female swan will leave the nest to bathe, preen, eat and drink. The male swan will stay nearby, not necessarily on the nest, but nearby as the female takes a rest. Once hatching of the ...

How to catch my pet swan -- Midge -- 18 April 2017

I have had my swan for over 3 yrs. he was given to us and he has never gone far from home. He is full grown, his wings have been clipped so he can't fly, he's approx. 5-6 yrs. old and we have never ...

Re: How to catch my pet swan -- The Regal Swan -- 18 April 2017

Hi Midge Will the homeowners use their boat to herd him onshore or would they let you use a couple of kayaks to herd him onshore? Either way, you will need some help to herd him onshore and keep him ...

Swans Partner -- Gemma -- 17 April 2017

Hello, at my local pond one of the residents swan had died on the first week of March. 1 month later, the swan's partner was spotted with a new partner on the pond, however 2 weeks later they have ...

Re: Swans Partner -- The Regal Swan -- 18 April 2017

Hi Gemma: Yes, the swan pair may have moved to another pond, especially if the cause of the partner's death was due to predators or other disruptive behavior. You might check with your local RSPCA or ...

catching cygnets -- Susan -- 17 April 2017

Hi, My moms dream finally came true, she has 3 mute cygnets. The question is how does she remove them from the parents so she can take them to the vet to be pinioned? Your help is greatly ...

Re: catching cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 18 April 2017

Hi Susan: The biggest question is the location of the swan family, i.e, are they on the pond free-swimming or does your mom have them in a pen? If they are in pen, she will need to carefully net the ...

Predator getting swan eggs -- Kelly -- 16 April 2017

hi..we bought some property with a pond and the former owners left two swans there...I recently found a nest with 3 eggs in it...I left it alone then next day checked and 2 eggs were out of the nest ...

Re: Predator getting swan eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 17 April 2017

Hi Kelly: If the swans are wild, then there is not much you can do. If they are captive (pinioned and unable to fly) the only thing you can do is place them in a pen (enclosed top to bottom so that ...

Swan gone -- Megan -- 16 April 2017

Hello me and my partner noticed a few weeks ago that a swan has laid eggs in an amazing looking nest and we have been keeping an eye without disturbing it however today I heard that a swan got into a ...

Re: Swan gone -- The Regal Swan® Foundation -- 16 April 2017

Please contact Wendy Herman, Swan Support in Datchet, UK. She will be able to advise and the contact needs to be made quickly to see if the eggs are viable. The Regal Swan

Cygnets dying -- Adèle -- 15 April 2017

I posted a question to you in February about my swans nesting early. They had 5 cygnets and for the 2nd year in a row they all died gradually over a period of 3 weeks. I've read where their lifespan ...

Re: Cygnets dying -- The Regal Swan -- 15 April 2017

Hi Adele: Until the cygnets are approximately the size of a large duck, (3-4 months of age), large fish, turtles, hawks, owls, egrets, herons, raccoons, bobcats, foxes, etc. can attack them as prey. ...

Swans plucking grass -- Jennifer -- 14 April 2017

I've observed adult swans pluck grass and place it behind themselves in piles; also pick up leaves and put it behind themselves. The piles seem of no interest to their cygnets. I'd love to know what ...

Re: Swans plucking grass -- The Regal Swan -- 15 April 2017

Hi Jennifer: Since this is springtime and usually mating season for most swans, the swans may be clearing an area and placing the removed vegetation onto the area which they want to build a nest. If ...

New swan on my pond: How to acclimate it -- Ben -- 10 April 2017

Hello! I have a small 1 to 1.5 acre pond on my property here in Kennesaw, GA and a friend has offered me a mute swan that has been on his pond, about 4 miles away, but has been overly aggressive ...

Re: New swan on my pond: How to acclimate it -- The Regal Swan -- 11 April 2017

Hi Ben: You need to build a pen completely enclosed top to bottom so predators cannot climb over and into the pen or dig under the pen to get to the swan. The pen should be 1/2 on the bank and 1/2 in ...

Re: New swan on my pond: How to acclimate it -- Ben -- 24 April 2017

Thanks Regal Swan! Following your advise, the new swan is in a pen on the shore and no doubt anxiously awaiting the end of two weeks. And I'm in the process of building a 4 ft by 4 ft floating ...

Re: New swan on my pond: How to acclimate it -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2017

Hi Ben: You are very welcome. Male swans usually build the nest, but since it is mating season and the female will drop eggs (with or without a male), it could still be a female trying to nest. If ...

Injured Female Swan -- Vicki -- 9 April 2017

I have attached a picture of the female swan on our lake. She did not lay her eggs this Spring on schedule. She was resting on our shore and i got close enough to observe that she has an injury. It ...

Re: Injured Female Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 10 April 2017

Hi Vicki: It is difficult to determine the exact cause of the injury if there is one. If there is egg impaction, she may have passed the egg and the cause of the area around the cloaca that looks ...

Re: Injured Female Swan -- Vicki -- 14 April 2017

Thanks so much for your response The area seems to be healing and she is eating and appears to be feeling OK. Vicki

Re: Injured Female Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 15 April 2017

Hi Vicki: You are very welcome. Glad to know that she is doing well. Thanks for the update. If you need further assistance in the future, please do not hesitate to contact us. The Regal Swan

Swan is alone -- Kati -- 9 April 2017

Hello! This is the second spring that we have seen a lone swan in our neighborhood park with a large pond. The swan stays for the warm season, and then leaves. The area is overtaken by canadian geese ...

Re: Swan is alone -- The Regal Swan -- 10 April 2017

Hi Kati: There could be several reasons. It is a young swan that is looking for a habitat for a potential mate to join it, or a swan that is used to the area and has lost its mate. Either way, if ...

How to pinion and sex baby swans -- Lois -- 7 April 2017

We have 4 new baby swans about 3-4 days old. How do we sex them and pinion their wings. Thanks so much, Lois

Re: How to pinion and sex baby swans -- The Regal Swan -- 7 April 2017

Hi Lois You need to get the cygnets to a veterinarian experienced in birds immediately. The cygnets are too young for sexing unless the veterinarian can take a feather sample and submit to a licensed ...

Female swan fertility -- Michael -- 4 April 2017

Our female doesn't seem to be acting normal...She's about 15 yrs old....No eggs yet....Is there an age when female or males stop being fertile?

Re: Female swan fertility -- The Regal Swan -- 4 April 2017

Hi Michael: Yes, female swans have a programmed amount of eggs that they will lay during their lifetime and each nesting period. Typically in birds, the younger the female begins to lay eggs, the ...

Sole Swan -- Christine -- 3 April 2017

There was a group of seven swans in a pond I pass every day. Over the past two to three months, all the swans left except for one. The remaining swan seems fine (healthy) but remains in the area by ...

Re: Sole Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 4 April 2017

Hi Christine: This may be a swan that is resting before traveling on or a juvenile swan that was left behind to find its own mate and habitat. If the juvenile is too young, it may not be until next ...

Group of about 30 Swans in Burlington Ontario -- Wendy -- 3 April 2017

I was walking along the water front in Burlington, Ontario and saw about 30 white swans just sitting in the water. I have never seen so many swans before in one place. Is this a normal thing? It was ...

Re: Group of about 30 Swans in Burlington Ontario -- The Regal Swan -- 3 April 2017

Hi Wendy: Yes, this is normal. More than likely, these swans are on their way back to their nesting sites from migration and got caught in the inclement weather fronts that have been occurring in ...

Dead Swans -- Barbara -- 2 April 2017

I live on the River Ivel in Langford, Bedfordshire. We have for years had a pair of swans who each year have a few offspring. Lately the male (I think) has been on his own and I assume she was on the ...

Re: Dead Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 2 April 2017

Hi Barbara The eggs could not be incubated unless they were taken immediately from the nest as soon as the parents swans died. Even then, incubation of swan eggs is very difficult. The best resource ...

Swans in NJ saltwater bays -- Heather -- 31 March 2017

I just moved to South New Jersey and am confused about seeing swans in several different saltwater bays around the coast. I don't see any freshwater around. How is this possible?

Re: Swans in NJ saltwater bays -- The Regal Swan -- 31 March 2017

Hi Heather: It is the end of migratory season and the swans are returning to their nesting sites. They may be using the coastline to return to the nesting sites and will use the water to cool down ...

Male trying to drown female mate when female chases baby away -- Carolyn -- 30 March 2017

I have a pair of swans that are nesting and we are seeing strange behavior. The female is chasing last year's baby out of the pond; when she does this the male chases his mate and tries to drown her ...

Re: Male trying to drown female mate when female chases baby away -- The Regal Swan -- 30 March 2017

Hi Carolyn No, this scenario seems backward. First, usually, not always, but usually a male swan will not sit on the nest for any significant amount of time. The males usually sit by the nest, not on ...

Re: Male trying to drown female mate when female chases baby away -- Carolyn -- 30 March 2017

Just a couple more things, the female is about 10-12 years old, the male is 3 years old. The male has basically run the female off her nest, he try's to peck her if she tries to eat when he is ...

Re: Male trying to drown female mate when female chases baby away -- The Regal Swan -- 31 March 2017

Hi Carolyn: Thanks for the additional info. You basically have a juvenile swan with hormones that have run amok. Usually, swans start to mate at 3, but because he was such a young bird at 2 when he ...

Would black austrian swans get along with trumpeter swans -- John -- 30 March 2017

Hi , i have a pond with some black austrian swans . Can I safely have a pair of trumpeter swans added to my pond?

Re: Would black austrian swans get along with trumpeter swans -- The Regal Swan -- 30 March 2017

Hi John: No, the Trumpeter Swans are much more defensive than the Australian Black Swans, even though the Australian Black Swans are pretty defensive in their own right. The Trumpeters will and can ...

New Swan Habitat -- Cheri -- 29 March 2017

I am looking to build a new swan habitat for my 3 year old pair of black swans. I would like to build them really nice and safe home. We live in an area with bobcats, mountain lions, bears, raccoons, ...

Re: New Swan Habitat -- The Regal Swan -- 30 March 2017

Hi Cheri: This is really an in-depth question and much too long for this forum. However, we will provide you with the most salient points and then ask that you go to our website: ...

Egg covered with water -- Betty -- 29 March 2017

My swans have for two years lost their eggs due to one flooding of their nest and drastic temperature drop. Eggs were rotten. Yesterday she laid her 1st egg this season and it poured last night ...

Re: Egg covered with water -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2017

Hi Betty No, she will not take the eggs back if you remove them from the nest. The eggs will go bad and you will have a nasty explosive mess in your house. If there is till one egg left in the nest, ...

Black cygnets touched by a person -- James -- 29 March 2017

Do black swans abandon their young if touched by a person?

Re: Black cygnets touched by a person -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2017

Hi James: No, cygnets (baby swans of any species) touched by a human will not keep the parents from caring for the cygnets. Many swan keepers and veterinarians must touch and handle cygnets for care ...

Swan nest flooded, mother pacing -- Ken -- 29 March 2017

Good Morning. I’m in Wichita, Kansas, and have looked for local resources to answer my questions but am coming up empty. Perhaps you can help me. There is a pair of Swans on a pond by home and the ...

Re: Swan nest flooded, mother pacing -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2017

Hi Ken It depends if the eggs were completely submerged if the eggs are still viable. If she is still hanging around the nest or sitting on top, she knows they still have a chance to hatch. If the ...

Re: Swan nest flooded, mother pacing -- Ken -- 29 March 2017

Thanks so much for getting back to me. This Swan used this same nest last year and all of her young were lost to later rains or coyotes. Later on in the year can I relocate this nest for her to ...

Re: Swan nest flooded, mother pacing -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2017

Hi Ken: Thanks for the update. Do you provide the straw for the nest building or are reeds, grasses or other nest building materials available in the area in which she has previously built? This is ...

Swans around 1 year old gently tug on our sleeves and trouser legs -- shaun -- 27 March 2017

hi, we have 2 one year old swans in our local park who come out of their way to meet us daily. They whistle and bob their heads, I assume in greeting, and gently tug on our sleeves and trouser legs. ...

Re: Swans around 1 year old gently tug on our sleeves and trouser legs -- The Regal Swan -- 28 March 2017

Hi Shaun The swans are not being aggressive in the sense of trying to harm you. If anything, it means they are greeting you and impatient for you to provide their food. Enjoy the swans and thank you ...

Siblings mating -- Pat -- 25 March 2017

Will sibling mute swans mate with each other? Thanks

Re: Siblings mating -- The Regal Swan -- 26 March 2017

Hi Pat Yes, swan siblings will form a bond with each other, especially around 2 years of age, although we have seen siblings begin to mate at one year of age. So, if you are planning on finding the ...

infected wing on mute swan -- Nancy -- 22 March 2017

Have mute swan, he is almost 1yr, he hurt his left wing. I took him to vet got Metacam and Enrofloxacin tablet to give him. He has been on this for 3 weeks wing is still really warm. x-rays were ...

Re: infected wing on mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 22 March 2017

Hi Nancy Some swans do well with anesthesia while others may not survive. However, if the infection is deep or in the bone, he will die from sepsis if not treated. We would suggest you contact Sylvan ...

Re: infected wing on mute swan -- Nancy -- 23 March 2017

Thank you for getting back to me so fast. I'm in Calif though, though. Do you know of anyone I might be able to contact near me. Again thank you for your help

Re: infected wing on mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 23 March 2017

Hi Nancy Sorry about the location mix-up, your email address showed NC. In any case, we are trying to get you a contact for assistance. A veterinary contact advised us to have you contact Univ. ...

Re: infected wing on mute swan -- Nancy -- 30 July 2017

Hi I wanted to say thank you so very much for your information you provided me and to let you know that (Gorgeous) is doing well now. I don't think he would still be alive if it wasn't for help.

Re: infected wing on mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 31 July 2017

Hi Nancy: You are very welcome. We are glad Gorgeous is better and that we have been of assistance. Please let us know if you have any other concerns. The Regal Swan

When are baby mute swans able to survive on their own -- Sienna -- 21 March 2017

Please tell me

Re: When are baby mute swans able to survive on their own -- The Regal Swan -- 21 March 2017

Hi Sienna: Cygnets (baby swans) can feed on their own 24 hours after hatching. However, it is the parent swans that are responsible for teaching the cygnets to find food, bathe, preen, recognize and ...

Muscovy ducks harass our mute swans -- Nancy -- 20 March 2017

We have a nesting pair of mute swans in our retention pond and for the second year in a row, three Muscovy ducks have appeared to harass them, intimidating them off the nest. Last year, they actually ...

Re: Muscovy ducks harass our mute swans -- The Regal Swan -- 20 March 2017

Hi Nancy: Are the Muscovy Ducks someone's pet or belong in a nearby captive setting? If so, you may be able to capture them and take them to their owner and request that they be kept on their pond. ...

Posing or upset? -- Faye -- 17 March 2017

While in the Netherlands, our tour group was watching the swans across the lake, then we had to leave. Everyone left quickly, and I was about to leave. However, a lone large swan appeared below me ...

Re: Posing or upset? -- The Regal Swan -- 18 March 2017

Hi Faye: This is a defensive or alert pose. The swan will use the wings in a defensive manner for any possible threat and the raising of the wings prepares the swan to strike if necessary. Even ...

Pinioning and breeding -- Michael -- 17 March 2017

Our Zoo has recently received a cob Trumpeter Swan, hopefully to breed with the female pen. He has not been released into the female's pond because of inability to determine if pinioning would ...

Re: Pinioning and breeding -- The Regal Swan -- 18 March 2017

Hi Michael: No, pinioning does not affect breeding, however if the male is more than 3 weeks of age, the pinioning must be conducted under anesthesia. Some birds cannot tolerate the anesthesia and ...

Swans not eating -- Steve -- 17 March 2017

I purchased a pair of mute swans, both males, to help keep the geese off my farm pond. I have been keeping them in a small cage (10-14') with half in pond and half on land. I have had the swans for 8 ...

Re: Swans not eating -- The Regal Swan -- 17 March 2017

Hi Steve: Where are you placing the poultry layer pellets? Are they in the water or in a pan/feeder? Is it the same type of feeder/pan that the breeder was using? If not, this might be the problem. ...

Young swan being chased by mother swan -- Carolyn -- 16 March 2017

Hi, I have a young swan that is about 9 months old, the mother swan is chasing it all over the ponds, not letting it eat with them (the parents). It is mating season right now, does this have ...

Re: Young swan being chased by mother swan -- The Regal Swan -- 16 March 2017

Hi Carolyn Yes, this is normal behavior as the parents chase the juvenile swans prior to the new nesting season. You need to find the young swan a separate area on the pond so this chasing stops. ...

Re: Young swan being chased by mother swan -- Carolyn -- 18 March 2017

Also, is there a problem with inbreeding among swans

Re: Young swan being chased by mother swan -- The Regal Swan -- 18 March 2017

Hi Carolyn: No, birds do not have the same issues caused by inbreeding as found in mammals. This is not to say that some genetic anomaly could not occur, but it would be several years or generations ...

Whooper Swan non mobile -- Trevor -- 15 March 2017

Hello there, We have one Whooper swan who loves to talk, like most do. It was up until Sunday when i went into the barn for chores; he didn't greet me. I went to his pen first and realized he wasn't ...

Re: Whooper Swan non mobile -- The Regal Swan -- 15 March 2017

Hi Trevor: He could have injured himself or got into a fight and ran into something. If you do not see any injuries, place him by himself for a few minutes and offer a bowl with food. Walk away and ...

Lots of swans -- Frankie -- 14 March 2017

Hi, close to where I live there are about 60-70 swans in a field, they have been there for about 2 weeks and they just sit on the grass, go and feed, and then always come back to the same field. It's ...

Re: Lots of swans -- The Regal Swan -- 14 March 2017

Hi Frankie: It sounds as if you are located near a migratory station. The swans have flown into this area for the winter from their northern habitat. The swans are eating in the field, resting and ...

Re: Lots of swans -- Frankie -- 19 March 2017

Thank you for your help!

Re: Lots of swans -- The Regal Swan -- 19 March 2017

Hi Frankie: You are very welcome. Please let us know if we can be of assistance in the future. The Regal Swan

Nesting swan and blizzard coming -- Nancy -- 12 March 2017

Due to the unseasonable temps here in NJ in February, our swans built a nest on Feb 25th and she has been out there since and has weathered 50 mi hour winds and a couple inches of snow and some ...

Re: Nesting swan and blizzard coming -- The Regal Swan -- 12 March 2017

Hi Nancy If this is a wild swan pair, there is not much you can do. She may ultimately abandon the nest if she gets too cold and seeks warmth or food in any available water. If the water freezes, she ...

Re: Nesting swan and blizzard coming -- Nancy -- 13 March 2017

Thank you for getting back to me. How do you define wild swan? This seems to be the same pair that are here on my creek every year. I don't believe they migrate as I see them all winter when the ...

Re: Nesting swan and blizzard coming -- The Regal Swan -- 13 March 2017

Hi Nancy: A wild swan is one that is not held in a captive setting, was not brought in by someone to stay on the pond by being rendered unable to fly (pinioned). An aerator that is 100 feet from the ...

Re: Nesting swan and blizzard coming -- Nancy -- 14 March 2017

Thank you so much for your information. I'll get food out to them today. Here's a wonderful picture we took this morning and a link to an album on my Facebook page. ...

Re: Nesting swan and blizzard coming -- The Regal Swan -- 14 March 2017

Hi Nancy: Great news and photo. Glad they made it through the storm and were able to keep the nest and eggs dry. On another note, please be careful about posting any information regarding the swans ...

Swans and ice -- Joy -- 10 March 2017

We are on a small lake in Mn which had open water a day ago. This morning we noticed 99% refroze and a pair of swans are here. We are not getting a warm up until next week. If they stick around will ...

Re: Swans and ice -- The Regal Swan -- 11 March 2017

Hi Joy: If they are wild swans and can fly, they should be okay as they will look for another open waterway. If they stay around, they must know that there is still some water available. The problems ...

Very hard shells on swan eggs -- Verdell -- 10 March 2017

Is there a special feed we should be using? The last two nesting seasons it appeared the shell were so hard the chicks could not break the shell to hatch. Please advise

Re: Very hard shells on swan eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 10 March 2017

Hi Verdell: We recommend that swans of all ages be fed a mixture of 50% cracked corn and 50% poultry layer pellets. The cracked corn acts as a filler and also provides the much needed Vitamin A. The ...

Do Unbred Female Swans Lay Eggs -- Linda -- 6 March 2017

Do female swans lay eggs even if she has not been bred? If you have two females and no males will the females still lay eggs or does she have to be bred to lay eggs?

Re: Do Unbred Female Swans Lay Eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 6 March 2017

Hi Linda: Yes, female birds are programmed to lay a certain number of eggs throughout their lives. During mating season, with or without a male, a female swan will still lay eggs due to the increased ...

About Canada goose in my yard -- Joyce -- 6 March 2017

Had a Canada goose land in or fell 2 yrs and now she is being mean to my female Toulouse and one of the smallest. They are 9 months old now. Should I let her go to a pond that has other geese?

Re: About Canada goose in my yard -- The Regal Swan -- 6 March 2017

Hi Joyce: The Canada Goose may be a male and looking to breed or remove others from its territory. Yes, you need to place it in a setting so that it is relatively the same size and age of other ...

Cygnet to Swan -- Mike -- 2 March 2017

When does a cygnet become a swan? I'm guessing that the answer is when it leaves its "family".

Re: Cygnet to Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 3 March 2017

Hi Mike: A cygnet becomes a juvenile at approximately 6 months of age and adult at one year of age. The Regal Swan

Dead swan -- Anthony -- 1 March 2017

Have seen your web site re swans fighting to the death. Below is a photograph of a dead swan found yesterday. He (Bruiser) arrived at our 3 acre lake in Wiltshire UK 5 years ago and mated with a 2 ...

Re: Dead swan -- The Regal Swan -- 1 March 2017

Hi Anthony: We are so sorry for your loss. While looking at the wound, there appears to be a tumor or other anomaly under the swan's beak that could have caused the swan not to be able to eat. The ...

Re: Dead swan -- Anthony -- 2 March 2017

Thank you - I had noticed the growth under the beak but had assume it to be "old age". I believe the swan died on the grass shown in photo therefore the 360 strip of the neck must have been ...

Re: Dead swan -- The Regal Swan -- 2 March 2017

Hi Anthony You are very welcome. The Regal Swan

Swimming space for swans -- Marsha -- 1 March 2017

I'm staying at the double tree in Austin TX and they have two swans, brothers, in a small pool.. Is this humane? It seems cruel to me.. Should report this and to who? Thank you Marsha

Re: Swimming space for swans -- The Regal Swan -- 1 March 2017

Hi Marsha: We have been hearing about these swans for many years as well as others who are kept in the hotel setting. There is nothing wrong with this as the swans are being cared for through ...

Swan stuck in my yard -- Portis -- 1 March 2017

We have a swan in our yard ,it has been there for 3 days . It does not want food but drink lots of water and it looks like it is struggling to fly cause it is wandering around the pool. What could be ...

Re: Swan stuck in my yard -- The Regal Swan -- 1 March 2017

Hi Portis: The swan may be an escapee from someone's captive setting or is a juvenile which was chased by the parents prior to the upcoming nesting season. The swan may be slightly injured and/or ...

Death of a female / what to do? -- Cheri -- 26 February 2017

Hello, We are new to swans and recently purchased property that included them. We have been here three months with no issues and we woke up to our female floating this morning. We had noticed that ...

Re: Death of a female / what to do? -- The Regal Swan -- 26 February 2017

Hi Cheriton The best thing is not to introduce another swan. First, there are no guarantees that he will accept another swan. Secondly, you don't know why the female died and you don't want to ...

Muscovy ducks killing Swans eggs -- Jennifer -- 26 February 2017

Hi! We have swans that are nesting in our lake. Last year, Muscovy ducks killed their eggs and are bothering them again this year. Is there anything we can do to help protect the Swans and their eggs?

Re: Muscovy ducks killing Swans eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 26 February 2017

Hi Jennifer Did you see the Muscovy Ducks actually chase the swans and attack the eggs? We ask, because typically the swans will chase ducks or geese if they get anywhere near the nest and ducks do ...

Lonely swan -- Jen -- 24 February 2017

Assuming it's a mute swan by the appearance. Not sure if male or female. I'm concerned because it has been alone for over a month. We live in Mi. I have not seen any others

Re: Lonely swan -- The Regal Swan -- 25 February 2017

Hi Jen: The swan is probably a juvenile swan that was dispatched by its parents from their habitat so the young swan will find a mate and start its own habitat/family. The swan is actually a ...

Mute swan with compound leg fracture -- Sharon -- 24 February 2017

We discovered this morning one of our two swans on shore not moving around. got close enough to see that the left leg appears to be broken, near the hip, with a lot of blood around that upper leg ...

Re: Mute swan with compound leg fracture -- The Regal Swan -- 24 February 2017

Hi Sharon Waterfowl, especially swans do not do well with leg fractures. If the swan is swimming and is able to get up and down the bank easily, then it may do well as it may not be a complete ...

How long will a mute swan stay? -- Alex -- 21 February 2017

We have a mute swan at our pond, which I am very excited about. How long do they stay, or will it move on to any other home? We live in Ohio and have about a 5 acre pond. Thanks!

Re: How long will a mute swan stay? -- The Regal Swan -- 22 February 2017

Hi Alex: The swan could stay forever as long as it finds a suitable habitat for nesting, feeding and living as long as it is free from predators. The major issue is that the Ohio DNR does not come ...

Black Swan nesting early -- Adele -- 19 February 2017

Hi, Our black swans have started nesting in the first week of February. We have watched them for 2 seasons and they generally start in April sometime. We are in the Hunter Valley NSW and are in the ...

Re: Black Swan nesting early -- The Regal Swan -- 19 February 2017

Hi Adele Yes, weather patterns can disrupt nesting times. This could also be due to the swans getting older and settling in to certain patterns. Typically, these swans nest in the spring and summer, ...

Stanley our new swan neighbor: the lake is ringed with rip-rap stone and we worry that he might injure himself when climbing out and walking towards us -- Dana -- 18 February 2017

We moved into an apartment on a 5 acre manmade lake a week ago and I was welcomed by a mute swan. I called to him and he swam over and climbed out of the water and walked over to greet me. I was told ...

Re: Stanley our new swan neighbor: the lake is ringed with rip-rap stone and we worry that he might -- The Regal Swan -- 19 February 2017

Hi Dana Yes, like most wildlife, the swan can recognize humans that feed and are kind to it. You are also correct in that the stone can severely injure his legs and feet, so you need to feed him in ...

Habitat in acre pond -- Edward -- 14 February 2017

My name is Ed. I work for a parks department in N.J The boro is thinking of getting two swans to help control geese population. We have a pond about an acre and a half; the pond has a concrete apron ...

Re: Habitat in acre pond -- The Regal Swan -- 14 February 2017

Hi Edward: First, the state of NJ is trying to kill all the Mute Swan in the state so they, like other states can introduce the larger Trumpeter Swans for Trophy Waterfowl hunting purposes. So, you ...

How and where to build a swan nest -- Justin -- 14 February 2017

I am building a swan nest for my 1st. I was wondering if you could send me a few pictures so that I can get the I can get an idea of what I am doing. I also would appreciate any pointers you could ...

Re: How and where to build a swan nest -- The Regal Swan -- 14 February 2017

Hi Justin: The swans usually will not use a nest built by a human. You can provide the straw and drop it in the area that you want them to nest, but there are no guarantees, so you might want to drop ...

Renting Swans for a Wedding? -- Teresa -- 12 February 2017

Is there a way to rent swans for a wedding to put in a pond for a wedding in October? Durham NC

Re: Renting Swans for a Wedding? -- The Regal Swan -- 12 February 2017

Hi Teresa Please contact Bob Knox, Knox Swans and Dogs at 847-875-3947. The Regal Swan

Female swan died, one month later male died; no sign of trauma -- Melanie -- 9 February 2017

2/9/2017 Purchased 2 female swans about 7 years ago. Last year purchased a male. He did pick one female and they hatched 2 signets. Both adults appeared very healthy, at the beginning of January the ...

Re: Female swan died, one month later male died; no sign of trauma -- The Regal Swan -- 9 February 2017

Hi Melanie: If there were some viral/bacterial infection, they probably would have all come down with the illness at one time, so you would have had swans, ducks, chickens, etc., all showing signs of ...

Female swan with 3 little babies left the pond -- Kelly -- 9 February 2017

We had a female swan in a pond across the street; she was there for 2 weeks and we have seen 3 little babies with her. Last night she flew away and have not seen the babies, they are dark in color ...

Re: Female swan with 3 little babies left the pond -- The Regal Swan -- 9 February 2017

Hi Kelly: Are you sure the babies you have seen are cygnets (baby swans) or ducklings/goslings? This is too early for the swans to have nested and produce cygnets as this does not usually occur until ...

Swan on busy road -- Heather -- 8 February 2017

Outside my office window I have a little pond that has a beautiful pair of swans. I have been watching them for over a year now. There is actually a row of 6 ponds, but one is separated by a busy 4 ...

Re: Swan on busy road -- The Regal Swan -- 8 February 2017

Hi Heather: The number one question would be why it left its pond in the first place. Did something scare it or chase it into the other area? Regardless, it is going to get killed or the other swan ...

Should we buy a female for our male swan -- Judy -- 7 February 2017

We had a pair of Mute Swans in our pond. The female died last spring. So far the male has not found another mate. We are considering buying a female swan from a breeder but don't know if he would ...

Re: Should we buy a female for our male swan -- The Regal Swan -- 8 February 2017

Hi Judy Usually, male swans will not re-pair if something occurs to their mate. This is an individual attribute, but we would suggest that you may be better off not getting him a mate. If he does not ...

Keeping black swan cygnets alive until they're big enough to fend for themselves -- Barbara -- 6 February 2017

A park near my home in southern Louisiana has had resident black swans for a long time and, in the past, it was common to see swan "families" in the park: mom, dad and a number of babies ...

Re: Keeping black swan cygnets alive until they -- The Regal Swan -- 7 February 2017

Hi Barbara: There is always the possibility that park staff or someone is taking the young birds from the park to control the population. Australian Black Swans are not native to Louisiana and they ...

How to get swans to come to our lake? -- Mary Ann -- 6 February 2017

Is there a way to get swans to come to your lake? We live on a lake that is connected to two others and sometimes they go to the middle lake. We have about 50 houses on our lake. My husband works at ...

Re: How to get swans to come to our lake? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 February 2017

Hi Mary Ann: Unfortunately, wild swans must determine their habitat by searching for adequate food, shelter and nesting resources free from predators. Another issue with swans in Indiana is that this ...

lone swan -- vicki -- 5 February 2017

We had two male swans on our 8 acre lake and they live there peacefully for over 5 years. Two weeks ago we witnessed for the first time the swans fighting. We were afraid the dominate male was going ...

Re: lone swan -- The Regal Swan -- 6 February 2017

Hi Vicki: No, there is no set recommendation that you must have a pair of swans as male swans generally stay on their own if something happens to their mate. Female swans will try to re-pair if ...

Black Australian Swans Vocal Through Night -- Darlene -- 5 February 2017

I have a pair of 2 year old Black Australian Swans, Gracie and Gunther that have grown up in a captive back yard environment. They have a large yard with water trough to use during the day but due to ...

Re: Black Australian Swans Vocal Through Night -- The Regal Swan -- 5 February 2017

Hi Darlene: The Australian Black Swans are very vocal and use the vocalizations to talk to each other, warn of possible danger or show their displeasure. The swans feed, bathe and sleep day or night, ...

Swan cygnets flew away -- Mark -- 4 February 2017

Is it a cause for concern if 6 mute swan cygnets flew away? If so what do you do?

Re: Swan cygnets flew away -- The Regal Swan -- 5 February 2017

Hi Mark: If the swans are able to fly, this is the time that they fly due to migration which helps them avoid severe inclement weather. This is also the time that the parents have begun to chase the ...

Purchase of Mute Swans in South Carolina -- Jared -- 31 January 2017

I have searched all over the internet looking for 2 pairs of mute swans. I have 2 ponds in South Carolina and would like to find 2 sets of male and female swans to live in my ponds. Do you have ...

Re: Purchase of Mute Swans in South Carolina -- The Regal Swan -- 31 January 2017

Hi Jared: We would suggest Bob Knox, Knox Swans and Dogs, 847-875-3947. He will provide you with a fair price, ship the swans, provide any information you request and more importantly, provide the ...

how to build a swan house -- Christine -- 28 January 2017

Friends, I am a resident at an independent care facility in Ohio. Our campus is 300 acres and it has a nice big lake. Born in Europe I remember the swan houses in almost every city park all over ...

Re: how to build a swan house -- The Regal Swan -- 29 January 2017

Hi Christine: Unfortunately, the swans bred in the U.S. for sale to captive settings are not raised in swan houses and such, they really do not like to have any overhead structure such as a roof. We ...

Introduced new male to female; female rejects male -- Todd -- 26 January 2017

Hello. Our female mute swan has been alone since her mate was killed about 3 years ago. We just acquired another male swan last Sunday. The female won't accept the male and runs him out of the pond ...

Re: Introduced new male to female; female rejects male -- The Regal Swan -- 26 January 2017

Hi Todd: Are you absolutely sure that your male swan was the one killed? Did you have DNA Sequencing conducted on your remaining swan and the introduced swan? DNA Sequencing is the only reliable ...

Re: Introduced new male to female; female rejects male -- Todd -- 27 January 2017

Thanks for the information. I just penned in the new male swan. Just to clarify, the swan that we have and believe is female, lays eggs every year. I take it males can not lay eggs?! Thanks for your ...

Re: Introduced new male to female; female rejects male -- The Regal Swan -- 29 January 2017

Hi Todd: Thanks for the update. No, males do not lay eggs so the assumption would be correct that it is a female if she is laying eggs. We mention the point of misidentification, because many times ...

Female mute swan alone after male killed by hunter -- John -- 25 January 2017

I live in a community where we have two mute swans for 20 years that were donated to us. Unfortunately a hunter killed the male swan. We are concerned about the female. She still has one cygnet with ...

Re: Female mute swan alone after male killed by hunter -- The Regal Swan -- 25 January 2017

Hi John: First, we do not know where you are located, but many states are commissioning hunters to kill any Mute Swans on any lake. This is to open the habitat so that they can introduce the larger ...

Re: Female mute swan alone after male killed by hunter -- John -- 25 January 2017

Thank you for the information. We were so afraid she might starve herself. We live in Pennsylvania and there are no rights for the swans. Which is ridiculous! Our swans lived in our community for 20 ...

Re: Female mute swan alone after male killed by hunter -- The Regal Swan -- 26 January 2017

Hi John: Yes, we feel your pain. These state and federal wildlife officials are out of control. If they do not like something that may or may not affect their hunting/fishing income, they will make ...

Re: Female mute swan alone after male killed by hunter -- John -- 26 January 2017

Thank you for the information it is very helpful. We are just beginning our journey and are looking to make changes and a difference in our community and state so no one else has to suffer like we ...

Re: Female mute swan alone after male killed by hunter -- The Regal Swan -- 26 January 2017

Hi John: Thanks for all you are doing for the swans. Please let us know how this situation progresses. The Regal Swan

Re: Female mute swan alone after male killed by hunter -- John -- 20 February 2017

Just updating you about our male swan that was killed by a hunter a month ago. The mother and cygnet stayed together at our lake and then a surprise yesterday morning. A male swan showed up at our ...

Re: Female mute swan alone after male killed by hunter -- The Regal Swan -- 22 February 2017

Hi John: Great news. We are thankful for all of your help in trying to fight the killings.

Lethargic swan -- Tracy -- 24 January 2017

Good afternoon, there is a group of swans on the lake near where I live and one of the young swans (maybe one yr old now) seems to be staying away on her own and is very lethargic she is grey in ...

Re: Lethargic swan -- The Regal Swan -- 24 January 2017

Hi Tracy If there is something wrong, i.e., illness or injury, the swan will stay to itself. This is nature's way to keep an illness from spreading to the flock or having a predator (enticed by a ...

Frozen river and mute swans -- Lisa -- 21 January 2017

Hello It hasn't been a particularly harsh winter in the UK but the marina has frozen over. I am worried about the juvenile group and a cygnet. I haven't seen the juveniles but the lone cygnet is back ...

Re: Frozen river and mute swans -- Regal Swan Foundation -- 21 January 2017

Hi Lisa The cygnet should leave prior to the water freezing as it can drown, starve, become dehydrated or stressed which can cause injury or illness or be attacked by a predator that can walk onto ...

Re: Frozen river and mute swans -- Lisa -- 22 January 2017

Hello again Apologies, we do feed them cracked corn and special food that we order in for them. He left this morning on his own and seemed ok. I will try RSPCA if he comes back but unfortunately they ...

Re: Frozen river and mute swans -- The Regal Swan -- 23 January 2017

Hi Lisa Thanks for the update. If he has flown, this is a good sign that he knows when and how to search for other food and habitat resources. He may come back because he knows he has a free food ...

Injured swan -- Judy -- 19 January 2017

I visit a local pond which is stocked by the homeowners with a swan family - a female and a set of remaining offspring. One of them has apparently become snagged by some nylon rope around one of his ...

Re: Injured swan -- The Regal Swan -- 19 January 2017

Hi Judy He knows that he is injured and out of commission and is probably not going to get near you. You need to go to him by getting a couple of kayaks and herding him into an area that he can be ...

Male Black Swan not eating -- Lynne -- 16 January 2017

My male black swan, approximately 25 years old, appears not to be eating. He walks to a protected spot against some arborvite and just sits there. While he is walking around after we let him out of ...

Re: Male Black Swan not eating -- The Regal Swan -- 16 January 2017

Hi Lynne You need to get him to an avian (bird), waterfowl or exotic veterinarian ASAP. When birds or animals go to sit by themselves and stop eating, there is usually something seriously wrong, ...

Park Swans -- Kay -- 15 January 2017

When I was a child and we were traveling, my Dad knew of a couple of city parks where they had pairs of swans, year after year. We always stopped to picnic in these parks and watch the swans. How ...

Re: Park Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 15 January 2017

Hi Kay: Since Minnesota is one of the states killing Mute Swans, it is unlikely that these are wild swans. Most states have relegated the Mute Swans (orange bills) to the captive setting by pinioning ...

swans not getting along -- tom -- 15 January 2017

I live near an 80 acre lake in California with a number of swans: Mutes, Trumpeters, and Blacks, all pinioned. A black pair has started a nest, and the Trumpeters are harassing it. The swans seemed ...

Re: swans not getting along -- The Regal Swan -- 15 January 2017

Hi Tom: Unfortunately, we have been trying to alert the public about US and state wildlife officials introducing the larger Trumpeter Swans for Trophy Waterfowl hunting purposes for years. These ...

Swans in a group: All gone! -- Alison -- 9 January 2017

I've been driving past 2 swans next to the river Taw for several weeks . A few days ago many swans had joined them and they were a joyful sight ! Today all swans have gone and I felt quite sad. Where ...

Re: Swans in a group: All gone! -- The Regal Swan -- 9 January 2017

Hi Alison More than likely this was a group that was resting before traveling to their winter migration grounds. Yes, in the spring the swans will return to find a habitat suitable for the nesting ...

Swan bobbing its head -- Jasmin -- 9 January 2017

Hello, Theres this swan at Salford Quays & everytime I see it at night, its always bobbing its head in water. Is this normal? Why does it keep doig this?

Re: Swan bobbing its head -- The Regal Swan -- 9 January 2017

Hi Jasmin What you describe appears to be feeding. Swans will feed above the water, slightly below and at greater depths. The swan may have pulled aquatic vegetation and other food sources from deep ...

Lone swan -- Susan -- 6 January 2017

We live on a small lake with 2 parents and two 8 month old children swans. One 8 month baby has taken to living on our land alone right beside the lake. The other 3 keep coming to get it to follow ...

Re: Lone swan -- The Regal Swan -- 6 January 2017

Hi Susan This is normal behavior as the parents are starting to chase the young from the habitat prior to the next nesting season. More than likely, the cygnet sitting in your yard is a young male ...

Re: Lone swan -- Susan -- 7 January 2017

Thank you so much Hopefully he will find a mate and all will be well here on the lake.

Re: Lone swan -- The Regal Swan -- 7 January 2017

Hi Susan You are very welcome. The Regal Swan

Ill swan: Head on breast, bill into the water, does not move -- James -- 5 January 2017

We have had a single swan on our lake for about 6 years. Couple males were in introduced to her but did not survive. We are in the North Carolina mountains at about 3,000 ft above sea level. She has ...

Re: Ill swan: Head on breast, bill into the water, does not move -- The Regal Swan -- 5 January 2017

Hi James If she is not moving or unable to lift her head, she can drown. You need to get her out of the water ASAP and get her to a licensed veterinarian experienced in waterfowl or take her to a ...

How to Get Back a Wandering Swan? -- Kathleen -- 4 January 2017

Greetings... My swan wandered into the neighbors pond...how can I get it back? Appreciate any advice...thanks! Kathleen

Re: How to Get Back a Wandering Swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 4 January 2017

Hi Kathleen You will need a couple of kayaks and a boat if possible to herd the swan back onto land so that you can either capture it or force it to walk back to your pond. You need to do this ...

Poorly Black swan -- Sinead -- 1 January 2017

I have a black swan that looks unwell, his neck sometimes hangs to the side, he's lost the red colour to his eyes and are sunken in a little and his poop is mainly white, he still walks about and ...

Re: Poorly Black swan -- Sinead -- 1 January 2017

His head isn't hanging it's more that he's resting it, being lethargic, I will get him to the vets on Tuesday as they are closed till then can you tell me anything about the colour of his poo and why ...

Re: Poorly Black swan -- The Regal Swan -- 1 January 2017

Hi Sinead Male Australian Black Swans' eyes turn white during mating season. Because they are a Southern Hemisphere swan species, they mate in the summer which is your winter. So, this may be the ...

Re: Poorly Black swan -- The Regal Swan -- 1 January 2017

Hi Sinead If his head is hanging, this sounds like a neurological issue caused by many things including toxins. We don't know your location in the U.K. Therefore, you need to contact either the ...

Re: Poorly Black swan -- Sinead -- 3 January 2017

Mylo has being to the vets today, they have x rayed him and can't find anything. He's staying in for the night with pain relief and antibiotics, and to see a different vet tomorrow. He has a mate and ...

Re: Poorly Black swan -- The Regal Swan -- 3 January 2017

Hi Sinead Good news that he is on antibiotics and rest. As far as the crop, swans have smaller crops than other birds, so this is normal. Hopefully, the new vet will provide more information. The ...

Swans mating -- Michael -- 31 December 2016

Hello, I was on my local bird sanctuary today ( coatham marsh) when I saw a pair of swans mating, the cob mounted the pen pushing her under the water then they both reared up facing each other in the ...

Re: Swans mating -- The Regal Swan -- 31 December 2016

Hi Michael Swans mate throughout the year as this is a bonding behavior. However, most swan species mate to produce offspring only once a year during springtime. Australian Black Swans will mate to ...

Strange behaviour from a pair of swans -- Ella -- 29 December 2016

I saw one swan chasing another very fast forward this morning on the river. The chasing swan had its feathers all puffed up. They were still doing it when I got back about 5 hours later. This was on ...

Re: Strange behaviour from a pair of swans -- The Regal Swan -- 30 December 2016

Hi Ella: Yes, more than likely the swans you describe are the Mute Swans (orange bills). This is very normal behavior in all species of swans. When juvenile swans are told to get lost in preparation ...

Remaining cygnet now fully grown -- Terri -- 25 December 2016

I wrote to you a few months ago when all but one cygnet flew away. The mum and dad are still with the remaining cygnet who is now almost fully grown and almost white. I have seen the cygnet fly so ...

Re: Remaining cygnet now fully grown -- The Regal Swan -- 26 December 2016

Hi Terri This is all normal behavior and as long as the cygnet can fly, she will be chased and encouraged by the parents to leave this habitat to find one of her own as well as a mate. If she ...

Mute Swan Feeding -- Jack -- 20 December 2016

I have a 5 acre pond in southern California. About 2 years ago we were gifted with a Mute Swan. our one Swan appears to be healthy. In addition to the vegetation growth in our pond the Swan is ...

Re: Mute Swan Feeding -- The Regal Swan -- 20 December 2016

Hi Jack You can tell if the swans start wandering to find something to eat. If they find the food trough, you will know by how much they are eating. If they are eating continually, then you may need ...

Swan in very cold weather -- Jeannine -- 15 December 2016

I have a swan that's been around since March of this year it's definitely a juvenile but now the water is very cold in the temperatures below 20 degrees I'm wondering if there's anything special that ...

Re: Swan in very cold weather -- The Regal Swan -- 15 December 2016

Hi Jeannine: You need to get someone to come out and capture the swan, safely on the ice so no one falls through or gets stuck. The use of a boat, kayak or other rescue device is required. The ...

Re: Swan in very cold weather -- jeannine -- 16 December 2016

There isnt a pond. We live in NY on Jamaica Bay part of the Ocean. The water is not frozen. She lets me carry him. She is about 2 years old. I feed her and give her water 2 to 3 times a day. She did ...

Swans drowning another -- Helen -- 15 December 2016

I have just witnessed two swans drowning another. Why? The poor young one was very waterlogged and they kept sitting on it and keeping it under the water. I am in Dorset England but hope you can give ...

Re: Swans drowning another -- The Regal Swan -- 15 December 2016

Hi Helen There are several reasons that this maybe happening. These may be juvenile male swans and they are trying to mate with the female and are too inexperienced to know they must hold her head ...

Adult swan appears to be frozen in pond -- Sheri -- 13 December 2016

A couple of swans arrived on our small neighborhood pond a few weeks ago. The cold Michigan weather has frozen the pond, and only one swan appears to have stayed and in the same spot for 3 hours. It ...

Re: Adult swan appears to be frozen in pond -- The Regal Swan® Foundation -- 13 December 2016

Michigan DNR wants to kill all Mute Swans in order to introduce the larger Trumpeter Swans for Trophy Waterfowl hunting purposes. So, they are not going to help nor will they allow anyone else in a ...

Re: Adult swan appears to be frozen in pond -- Sharon -- 13 December 2016

I also have seen the swan in question on this pond. From what I can see and understand from the residents near by is that this swan did have a mate and is and older swan not a juvenile. The swan ...

Re: Adult swan appears to be frozen in pond -- The Regal Swan -- 14 December 2016

Hi Sharon If the swan is not moving at all, it may have died in the ice. Trying to feed it some cracked corn and poultry layer pellets may help. However, this could also lure predators onto the ice ...

winter coming and swan still on our pond -- Patricia -- 12 December 2016

We live on a medium sized pond in Massachusetts. In late October a large white swan appeared on our pond and has been there since, dipping below the surface most of the day for food. Yesterday the ...

Re: winter coming and swan still on our pond -- The Regal Swan -- 12 December 2016

Hi Paul & Patricia This sounds like a juvenile swan who did not leave with the rest of the flock or was chased into an area and does not know how to leave. Our best suggestion is that you find a ...

Male black swan dead -- Saadat -- 11 December 2016

My adult male black swan just died over night. No bite. No nothing. Female is sitting on 4 eggs. What to do to help? I am in Lahore, Pakistan. Its a little foggy weather here.

Re: Male black swan dead -- The Regal Swan -- 11 December 2016

Hi Saadat: Without having a necropsy (animal autopsy), there is no way of knowing what may have caused the death. The only thing that you can do is to protect the female from predators, make sure she ...

Swans sleeping in freezing weather -- Christy -- 10 December 2016

There are several swans who are wintering in Silvana, WA. When the water freezes in the corn fields where they spend their day, where do they go to sleep? How cold of water do they swim in? When the ...

Re: Swans sleeping in freezing weather -- The Regal Swan -- 11 December 2016

Hi Christy: If the swans do not migrate, they will try to find a body of water unfrozen so that they can stay warm and sleep at night protected from predators. Swan feathers are made for cold ...

Swan been adopted by herring -- Sharon -- 6 December 2016

I just wanted to report at Salford quays there was a young swan probably about 5 months old. Not sure of it was abandoned by its was going brown. It had died at the side of the quays. It sadly took 8 ...

Re: Swan been adopted by herring -- The Regal Swan -- 6 December 2016

Hi Sharon: You might want to contact the RSPCA since swans are a protected species. If they do not pick up the carcass, they should be able to tell you who to contact. Secondly, Mute Swans and other ...

where do mute swans specifically come from -- Gracie -- 6 December 2016

I am doing a school project and I need to know where mute swans come from specifically

Re: where do mute swans specifically come from -- The Regal Swan -- 6 December 2016

Hi Gracie: Fossils found in North America were determined to be the ancestors of Mute, Black-Necked, Trumpeter and Tundra Swans. Some scientists believe that the Mute Swans originated in Europe, ...

Mute swan in Pennsylvania early December: Normal? -- Lisa -- 4 December 2016

We have a large man make lake in our neighbor and we have had a Mute swan on the lake since Thanksgiving. It is the only swan. It is normal for there to only be one swan? It is normal who the swan to ...

Re: Mute swan in Pennsylvania early December: Normal? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 December 2016

Hi Lisa: If the swan is a juvenile, the parents chased it from the habitat in September and/or it was on the migratory path and got lost. Once the cold weather begins, it will try to find warmer ...

Regal Swan® Foundation, Inc. Wins Fight To Save Mute Swans In NY -- The Regal Swan® Foundation -- 2 December 2016

November 29, 2016 For Immediate Release Contact: Shirley Bolin Tel.: (407) 931-6838 Email: Bolin.S@att.net Regal Swan® Foundation, Inc. Wins Fight To Save Mute Swans In NY NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo has ...

Growing cygnets disappear -- Janette -- 2 December 2016

I've watched six cygnets hatch and grow on a local pond, with their parents, since Spring. They were down to five a month ago and now down to four. Are the growing cygnets just leaving to set up ...

Re: Growing cygnets disappear -- The Regal Swan -- 2 December 2016

Hi Janet: More than likely, the parents are starting to chase the cygnets from the area to prepare for the migration and upcoming nesting season. If you have a local swan sanctuary in your area, you ...

Re: Growing cygnets disappear -- Janette -- 4 December 2016

That's helpful, thanks! I wasn't sure if they would all fly away at once or if it was normal to do it one at a time.

Re: Growing cygnets disappear -- The Regal Swan -- 5 December 2016

Hi Janette: You are very welcome. Whether the cygnets fly at once, totally depends on the parents and individual swans. Sometimes, the parents (especially if they have been successful parents for ...

Baby Swan separated from its group -- Lydia -- 2 December 2016

Hi, its been now 6 weeks I see every day a baby swan at one place under the bridge in Dublin, Ireland. I live near by - I would say maybe 1 km away next to the canal where a big group of swans come ...

Re: Baby Swan separated from its group -- The Regal Swan -- 2 December 2016

Hi Lydia: If the DSPCA will not intervene, see if you can find a swan sanctuary or wildlife rescue facility in your area. They may be able to intervene. Otherwise, the cygnet will have to be left to ...

Bumblefoot female swan -- Cristina -- 30 November 2016

Hi there We have a young 2 year old swan that arrived to ours couple of months ago. We live in Scotland, U.K. The swans live in an enclosed protected area with a pond. The winter came and large parts ...

Swans won't go into new house -- Brad -- 25 November 2016

2 female swans wings clipped been here for years moved the house they are in every winter and they wont go in it pond is freezing snow on the ground

Re: Swans won't go into new house -- The Regal Swan -- 26 November 2016

Hi Brad: The reason that the swans will not go in the house is that it was moved and they are confused as to why it is not in the same area that they have used previously. Why was the house moved? Is ...

Do swans leave their habitat? -- Heather -- 17 November 2016

Do resident swans ever leave their habitat to go and be with other swans.

Re: Do swans leave their habitat? -- The Regal Swan -- 17 November 2016

Hi Heather: Usually, swans will leave to join other swans during the migratory season. However, if the swans are pinioned (portion of one wing amputated so they cannot fly) or the feathers are ...

How do Mute Swans find their mates? -- Nick -- 12 November 2016

I'm just curious if there's any knowledge as to how they attract and obtain a mate? We've all seen the ritual, but what comes before that?

Re: How do Mute Swans find their mates? -- The Regal Swan -- 13 November 2016

Hi Nick: Once the cygnets turn white in color (signaling that they are becoming adults) and prior to the onset of the next nesting season, the parents chase the cygnets from the nesting habitat. ...

swan sounds -- Jody -- 8 November 2016

We have one swan on our pond (wing clipped). Sometimes when I am at the bank of the pond, the swan will swim to the edge of the pond, slightly lift her wings, and make a throaty gurgle noise. Is she ...

Re: swan sounds -- The Regal Swan -- 12 November 2016

Hi Jody: Depending on how long she lifts her wings, as this is a defensive behavior, she probably is saying hello. If the wings are up and she hisses, this is very defensive sign meaning that she ...

Trumpeter Swans in Winter -- Ed -- 7 November 2016

We have been raising Trumpeters for about 10 yrs. Currently we have our 8 yr old breeder pair and 3 babies that will be 3 in the spring. We are going to retire and will be spending winters in Florida ...

Re: Trumpeter Swans in Winter -- The Regal Swan -- 7 November 2016

Hi Ed Please call Bob Knox at Knox Swan and Dogs. He will give them all a good home. His number is 847-875-3947. The Regal Swan

When do swans leave their young? -- Paige -- 6 November 2016

My husband and I have recently discovered that there are three young swans on a pond near our home. They aren't with older swans, just by themselves. Will they eventually leave? Could they be ...

Re: When do swans leave their young? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 November 2016

Hi Paige If the swans are not pinioned (rendered unable to fly) and not someone's pets, then the young are chased by the parents. Usually, the chasing occurs once the cygnets (captive or wild) turn ...

How do humans and swans rely on each other -- Fatima Amar -- 3 November 2016

How do humans and swans rely on each other

Re: How do humans and swans rely on each other -- The Regal Swan -- 5 November 2016

Hi Fatima: Man relies on swans, especially Mute Swans, to alert to problems in the environment, such as the presence of heavy metals (copper, lead and mercury), as well as harmful microorganisms. ...

Number of swans on one pond -- Katie -- 2 November 2016

Hi there, We have several mute swans living on our property in NZ. Each year the swans produce approx 7 cygnets. They seem to pair up, but each year we have had to move them on into seperate ...

Re: Number of swans on one pond -- The Regal Swan -- 3 November 2016

Hi Katie His pond is less than an acre, so unless he can separate the pond for the various pairs, he is only going to be able to have 1-2 pairs realistically. If you are already having problems with ...

Curious about swan behavior -- Shari -- 1 November 2016

Hi, I am staying at a resort where there is a pond that has two swan couples. I have been watching them since arriving here over the last couple of days, and they have appeared to maintain the same ...

Re: Curious about swan behavior -- The Regal Swan -- 2 November 2016

Hi Shari It appears that the swan is picking up food or drinking from the top of the water. If it is dipping it's head, it is eating from below the surface. The other swan may not be hungry, but is ...

Mute Swans: control & introduction to the US -- Ava -- 29 October 2016

Dear swan specialist, We are doing a project on Mute swans for science class and we have some questions about them. We were wondering what are some ways to get rid of mute swans easily? We were also ...

Re: Mute Swans: control & introduction to the US -- The Regal Swan -- 30 October 2016

Hi Ava: First, we would NEVER recommend that Mute Swans be removed. The case of killing Mute Swans across the U.S. is one of the largest hoaxes ever perpetuated on the U.S. Taxpayer. In 2014, the ...

Mute Swan cygnets and mother disappeared -- Terri -- 29 October 2016

3 out of the four cygnets appeared to have flown away. One cygnet is left but the mother also appears to have gone. The remaining cygnet is being cared for by 2 cobs. What has happened to the mum and ...

Re: Mute Swan cygnets and mother disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 30 October 2016

Hi Terri: Are you sure that the remaining swan is not the mum? The reason we ask is that it is not normal behavior for the remaining cobs to allow a cygnet to stay in the area unless they are all ...

Re: Mute Swan cygnets and mother disappeared -- Terri -- 31 October 2016

Thank you. I am new to swans and very keen to learn. I identified the difference between the male and female by their beak - maybe I have made a mistake. I am more concerned about the remaining ...

Re: Mute Swan cygnets and mother disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 1 November 2016

Hi Terri: Your best bet for a fact sheet would be to contact Wendy at Swan Support in Datchet, England. She may have one that she can send to you. As far as determining gender based upon the size of ...

Black swan lost appetite -- Christine -- 27 October 2016

Hi can you give me information please, one of my black swans has stopped being hungry and I have to really encourage her to eat.

Re: Black swan lost appetite -- The Regal Swan -- 27 October 2016

Hi Christine Not eating is usually a warning sign that something is wrong such as illness or injury. You need to get the swan to a licensed avian/waterfowl veterinarian quickly. If you do not know of ...

Leaving cob alone on his lake -- Betty -- 26 October 2016

If I relocate 3 cygnets and their mother to other lakes, will the cob, being left alone after spending 4 years on the same lake go and search for the cygnets and his pen? We are actually providing ...

Re: Leaving cob alone on his lake -- The Regal Swan -- 26 October 2016

Hi Betty We would strongly suggest that you Do Not separate the cob from his current mate. Male swans will go back to the original pen, no matter what. If something were to happen to her, it is ...

Breastfeeding? -- Joy -- 24 October 2016

Do swans breastfeed their young?

Re: Breastfeeding? -- The Regal Swan -- 24 October 2016

Hi Joy: No swans do not breastfeed their young. Birds (Swans) belong to the Class Aves. Only Class Mammalia (Mammals) have mammary glands and thus nurse their young. The Regal Swan

Brownish swan rejected by parents -- Janie -- 20 October 2016

A brownish swan was born into a family this year. Out of the seven swans they had only two survived; one is all white and the other is brownish color. The mother and father are trying to chase it ...

Re: Brownish swan rejected by parents -- The Regal Swan -- 23 October 2016

Hi Janie: This is normal behavior as the cygnets are being told to get lost prior to the next nesting season. The entire family may fly off during the winter migration if they can fly (not ...

Mute swans and Indiana's ecosystem -- Morgan -- 20 October 2016

Hello, I have a question about mute swans. What dangers do mute swans have to Indiana's ecosystem? And what some of your personal ideas to stop or slow a mute swan's process? Thank you for your help ...

Re: Mute swans and Indiana -- The Regal Swan -- 20 October 2016

Hi Morgan: Despite the widespread misrepresentation of Mute Swans and the greatest hoax ever perpetuated on the U.S. taxpayer by federal and state wildlife officials, Mute Swans DO NOT have any ...

Re: Mute swans and Indiana -- Morgan -- 1 November 2016

well you do have a good point, we need ideas of how to get the mute swan back to its country!

Re: Mute swans and Indiana -- The Regal Swan -- 1 November 2016

Hi Morgan Actually through a review of fossils found in North America, specifically the U.S., the Mute Swan ancestors began here. So, these findings show that the Mute Swans were here long before the ...

Swans dying, have the feathers on their necks standing upright -- Gijs -- 20 October 2016

Hello, I have a question about my white Swans. I started to obtain swans some year and a half ago, by purchasing 3 young animals (about 6 months of age) which were brothers or sisters. I have a ...

Re: Swans dying, have the feathers on their necks standing upright -- The Regal Swan -- 20 October 2016

Hi Gijs: There could be several reasons for these deaths. Neurological problems resulting in the swans being unable to hold their head/neck erect and sudden demise could be the following: 1. ...

Orphan Swan not yet flying -- Evert -- 19 October 2016

There was an orphan swan on our lake who has been hanging out on my side of the lake. There was a really aggressive swan who would try to attack it whenever it could, so I sort of protected the ...

Re: Orphan Swan not yet flying -- The Regal Swan -- 20 October 2016

Hi Evert: The parents do teach the young how to fly. There may be something that has caused the young swan not to fly: Injury or illness, stunted growth, or just not old enough to fly on its own yet. ...

Cygnets leaving family -- Georgia -- 19 October 2016

We had swans that breed on our small lake this spring. They had four babies that hatched. When the babies were about 4 weeks old, a predator got one. The next day the patents and babies moved to a ...

Re: Cygnets leaving family -- The Regal Swan -- 19 October 2016

Hi Georgia It is migration time for birds and the parents are beginning to chase their offspring out of the habitat prior to the new nesting season. If you are near a flyway or winter migratory ...

Swan with something stuck around mouth -- Kim -- 18 October 2016

local animal control cant catch this baby swan and Tufts said It's not an endangered species, any ideas how to help this swan. The parents are around.

Re: Swan with something stuck around mouth -- The Regal Swan -- 18 October 2016

Hi Kim: Do the parents and the family come up to the bank if you feed them bread? Are they wild or captive? How old is the cygnet? These three questions are going to help determine what might be ...

Black swan in Minnesota? -- Ruth -- 17 October 2016

We saw what looked like a black swan in Minnesota. Is this possible?

Re: Black swan in Minnesota? -- The Regal Swan -- 18 October 2016

Hi Ruth Yes, it would be possible to see an Australian Black Swan in Minnesota. However, more than likely it is someone's pet as it would not be able to survive the severe cold inclement weather ...

Alienation -- Lisa -- 16 October 2016

We have a family of swans (4 cygnets). Recently, one of the parents has died. It appears as though one of the cygnets has assumed the role of the mate for widowed parent. Is this normal? Also, one of ...

Re: Alienation -- The Regal Swan -- 16 October 2016

Hi Lisa: Yes, it is normal behavior if one parent dies for the oldest cygnet to vie for the position of the mate. Do you know which parent died (Male or female) and the gender of the cygnets, ...

Re: Alienation -- Lisa -- 17 October 2016

We are unsure how to tell the sex. One of the adult swans always led the family and the other always brought up the rear. The one that led the family still remains. We believe the cause of death was ...

Re: Alienation -- The Regal Swan -- 18 October 2016

Hi Lisa 1. The only reliable means to determine gender is to conduct DNA sequencing. This is a scientific method in which a feather contains DNA material is removed and submitted to a licensed ...

Swans don't leave the shoreline -- George -- 13 October 2016

Hi there, where I work we have two white Swans that have no interest in swimming in the lake where they live. They were newly purchased about a year ago. All they do is hang around the feeder until ...

Re: Swans don't leave the shoreline -- The Regal Swan -- 16 October 2016

Hi George: Have you or anyone else observed the swans at night? More than likely, they are staying in the water over night and coming out in the daytime to preen, rest and feed. If they do not stay ...

Introducing new adult swans to other swans -- Tom in Indiana -- 13 October 2016

We had four Mute swans 4-5 years of age. One was killed on road and we would like to introduce another adult? I believe all three are males but the new would be a verified female.

Re: Introducing new adult swans to other swans -- The Regal Swan -- 16 October 2016

Hi Tom: You would need to first verify that the gender of all swans. Even one female will upset the status of your pond. The other swans know each other and have accepted them into the fold. Should ...

Mute Swan behavior: Where to they prefer to spend the dark hours? -- John -- 8 October 2016

We live on Portage Inlet and have been grain feeding a resident swan family for many years. Over the years the makeup of the family has changed due to age / accident etc but a single pair maintain ...

Re: Mute Swan behavior: Where to they prefer to spend the dark hours? -- The Regal Swan -- 8 October 2016

Hi John Usually, swans will stay in deep water as they are protected from most predators at night. If reeds or other aquatic vegetation is free from predators or forms a barrier/island from land ...

Swan adoption of other birds/animals? -- Patricia -- 4 October 2016

Do swans ever adopt non-swan birds or other animals?

Re: Swan adoption of other birds/animals? -- The Regal Swan -- 4 October 2016

Hi Patricia: Normally, the answer would be no. In fact, because geese, ducks, swans and other waterfowl are extremely territorial in protecting their families, they usually do not allow the young of ...

Chainlink cage over the swans to prevent them from flying away? -- Simon -- 3 October 2016

Should I construct a chain-link canopy over my swan pond to prevent them from flying away?

Re: Chainlink cage over the swans to prevent them from flying away? -- The Regal Swan -- 4 October 2016

Hi Simon: We don’t have enough information to answer this question. 1. Are the swans captive? If the swans are wild, then no you cannot do this as it might be illegal under your state wildlife laws. ...

Female leaving mate, 3 cygnets -- Betty -- 1 October 2016

Juliet, 19 year old white mute, has given us about 50 cygnets. The only time she has ever left her lake is the year after her cob died. She went to our other lake, picked out a cob, and took him home ...

Re: Female leaving mate, 3 cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 2 October 2016

Hi Betty: Animals/birds know when they are sick and will isolate themselves from the flock either through their own actions or the others in the herd/flock. This is nature's way to prevent the spread ...

Re: Female leaving mate, 3 cygnets -- Betty -- 5 October 2016

I wrote to you last week re 19 year old swan leaving 3 cygnets and cob behind and traveling to another lake. Found out she was sick with upper respiratory infection. Kept her home and gave Baytril ...

Re: Female leaving mate, 3 cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 5 October 2016

Hi Betty This may be a sign of aggression, but if she did not flee and he did not try to hurt her, then it may have been a little family spat. If the family came over and ate with her, that is a good ...

Swan with broken beak -- Valerie -- 2 October 2016

Hi, j am in southern England, we have a man made lake that has many ducks and a family of swans, I go most mornings to feed them, this morning I noticed one of the adult swans had a broken beak, part ...

Re: Swan with broken beak -- The Regal Swan -- 2 October 2016

Hi Valerie: Please contact Wendy Hermon at Swan Support (Datchet, England), 011 44 7572 450967 or the RSPCA to have them come out and rescue the swan with the broken bill. They can examine him and ...

Mute swan can't fly -- Kari -- 2 October 2016

A pair of adult mute swans live on our lake each summer. This summer one of the babies was somehow injured. It's the time of year the parents teach the babies to fly. The injured one at first, triee ...

Re: Mute swan can -- The Regal Swan -- 2 October 2016

Hi Kari: If the parents leave and the pond freezes over, then the young bird may not be able to survive as it can freeze, predators can walk onto the frozen pond and kill it, it could drown, die from ...

Single swan stops at lake behind our house every Fall -- Karen -- 28 September 2016

We have a small lake behind our house and for at least five years we have had a swan come and hang out in the fall for about a month. The it disappears until the following year. We live in Omaha NE ...

Re: Single swan stops at lake behind our house every Fall -- The Regal Swan -- 29 September 2016

Hi Karen More than likely, your pond serves as a stopover along the Migratory path. Stopovers allow birds to rest, eat and revive their energy levels before proceeding to winter habitats or returning ...

Rehabilitating an adult swan -- Beth -- 28 September 2016

An adult female swan was found with a fish hook stuck in her throat. After an operation the fish hook was successfully removed. When being rehabilitated, the swan had to be kept alone. If there was ...

Re: Rehabilitating an adult swan -- The Regal Swan -- 29 September 2016

Hi Beth There are several factors that would enter into this decision. 1. The size of your overall facility for housing various species. 2. Whether you have a large water ...

Is it a herd? -- Annie -- 27 September 2016

Hi! Just a question... today along the walk, we spotted up to almost 30 swans in (hm... not sure how to describe it) small section of the bay. Yesterday there were only about 18. It didn't seem to me ...

Re: Is it a herd? -- The Regal Swan -- 27 September 2016

Hi Annie The overall group is called the flock, but there may be sub flocks of younger birds and families. Migration is beginning so the numbers may fluctuate until all leave for the Migratory ...

Cygnet Rehab: Suggestions for swan enrichment toys/activities? -- Rebecca -- 27 September 2016

Hi there - what a great site! I am a wildlife rehabber and animal lover and have a black swan cygnet who was brought to me by another rehabber who thought that I could help it. He had a badly injured ...

Re: Cygnet Rehab: Suggestions for swan enrichment toys/activities? -- The Regal Swan -- 27 September 2016

Hi Rebecca: Thank you for taking the swan in and rehabbing him. There are a couple of suggestions. First, get a large plastic swimming pool and sink it in the ground or dig a small lined pond so that ...

Cygnet and parents: How to keep father swan around? -- Connie -- 27 September 2016

We have a pair of mute swans at our park. They had one cygnet in May. The young one hangs with the female. The father has started to wander off away from the pond. Is this typical? Can we do anything ...

Re: Cygnet and parents: How to keep father swan around? -- The Regal Swan -- 27 September 2016

Hi Connie: Wandering from the pond is a major concern as it leaves the swan open to predation or possibly being hit by a vehicle if there is a nearby road. Now, having said this, if these are captive ...

mute swan populations your take? -- Tressa -- 26 September 2016

Hi there, I am currently enrolled in a class that I am researching about the populations of mute swans declining due to the DNR trying to reduce their numbers because they are a threat to habitat and ...

Re: mute swan populations your take? -- The Regal Swan -- 26 September 2016

Hi Tressa: The Mute Swan killings are the largest hoax ever perpetuated on the U.S. taxpayer. In 2014, world renowned swan and wetland habitat specialists met at the International Swan Symposium. ...

One of the swans in our lake died. -- Ken -- 24 September 2016

Hi, I live in a 40 acre lake in RI. A pair of swans have been here for as long as I can remember. One of the pair died recently. So I guess my question is what will happen to the remaining swan? Is ...

Re: One of the swans in our lake died. -- The Regal Swan -- 25 September 2016

Hi Ken: We are sorry for your loss. However, until you know exactly what killed the first swan, there is no reason to find another as it may succumb to the same cause. Also, there is a possibility ...

swans in a housing development lake -- Rick -- 20 September 2016

We live in a housing development: single family homes on 0.5 to 2 acre lots, in Virginia, USA. There is a pond that is approx 600 feet by 80 feet and has brush only on one side about 40 feet long. ...

Re: swans in a housing development lake -- The Regal Swan -- 20 September 2016

Hi Rick: After looking at the photo, there is a greater concern. There is a road next to the pond. If you remove the bushes, the swans will begin to wander into the road. Not only will they be ...

Swans & their poop -- Monica -- 19 September 2016

I am trying to find out how big swan poop can be. We have 4 swans on the lake at the condo. There are piles of poop in the same area where the swans lay around and walk. Residents have been blamed ...

Re: Swans & their poop -- The Regal Swan -- 19 September 2016

Hi Monica Yes, swan poop can be as big as dog poop, but you will notice a lot of grass. If the swans are fed cracked corn and poultry layer pellets, the fecal matter will be more solid. If the birds ...

Cygnets won't fly -- David -- 16 September 2016

Hi, Great site. We live in Victoria, Australia and have a view over a small swamp. Our black swan pair hatched seven cygnets this year. Recently five learned to fly and appear to have left. The other ...

Re: Cygnets won -- The Regal Swan -- 16 September 2016

Hi David: Thanks for your kind remarks. We're glad you like the website and that we can be of assistance. There could be a couple of reasons that the cygnets are not flying. One reason could be that ...

Lone swan watches over the goslings -- Sarah -- 10 September 2016

Hi there, I live in New Jersey and I was hoping someone would be able to give me some information about a lone swan that lives in the lake near my house. This fellow (or lady) showed up about two ...

Re: Lone swan watches over the goslings -- The Regal Swan -- 12 September 2016

Hi Sarah: The lone swan could be a juvenile kicked out of the habitat by the parent for the upcoming breeding season. He/she at least has some waterfowl pals to hang around with until the migratory ...

Mute swans that do not reproduce -- Paul -- 7 September 2016

I have owned a pair of Mute Swans for 4 years. The first year she laid 7 eggs on an island in my pond. She would not sit on the eggs. Since the first year nothing. Should I replace the male?

Re: Mute swans that do not reproduce -- The Regal Swan -- 7 September 2016

Hi Paul: There are two questions here. How old are the birds as older birds may not produce offspring once they reach a certain point in their life. Second, are you absolutely sure you have a male ...

Territorial Swan -- Tracie -- 5 September 2016

We have three, 2-year old swans - 2 males and 1 female. Back in February, the 1 male started chasing the other male from the pond. This behavior subsided after mating season so it all seems perfectly ...

Re: Territorial Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 5 September 2016

Hi Tracie: It seems that you have done everything correctly by providing an introductory pen and slowly making a formal introduction. However, there are two major concerns we have. One, the age of ...

Re: Territorial Swan -- Tracie -- 6 September 2016

Thanks for your feedback. It sounds like a real conundrum. We are fairly confident it is a female as the seller works with a vet to pinion and sex identify the swans at birth. Can't speak to why he ...

Re: Territorial Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 6 September 2016

Hi Tracie If the aggressive behavior only exists when you are around, this may mean that they somehow feel threatened by you and they are associating you with the cygnet. If they see you pick it up, ...

National Wildlife Day -- The Regal Swan® Foundation, Inc. -- 4 September 2016

Save the Mute Swan! We cannot continue to lose this important indicator species due to blatant lies, malicious misrepresentations and downright ignorance by wildlife agencies and officials. Sheila ...

Swans paddling with one leg tucked behind wing - why? -- SS -- 4 September 2016

Hello, My husband and I were visiting Annecy, France when we came upon a family of swans (looked like a mother, father and three gray-coloured younglings). They were all at the bottom of a small ...

Re: Swans paddling with one leg tucked behind wing - why? -- The Regal Swan -- 4 September 2016

Hi SS Swimming with one leg tucked is normal behavior in swans. This is a way to relax and in some instances may allow for the dissipation of heat. Foot webbing has many small blood vessels. The ...

Cygnet approx 4 months not with parents anymore -- Amy -- 3 September 2016

Hello, I enjoy your site so much and have asked a question before and you were so helpful. I have another swan concern. I live on Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island in New England and we have a lovely ...

Re: Cygnet approx 4 months not with parents anymore -- The Regal Swan -- 4 September 2016

Hi Amy Thanks for your kind words. We are glad that we have been assistance to you. The cygnet is approximately 5 1/2-6 months of age and migratory season is upon us. So, it is possible that the ...

Can swans experience stress? -- Lois -- 2 September 2016

Sorry it's not really relevant to the any of the swans mentioned on this site, and also it's not really urgent, but I wanted to know if (in general) swans can experience stress, and how you could ...

Re: Can swans experience stress? -- The Regal Swan -- 2 September 2016

Hi Lois Yes, swans can show stress. If they are indicating pain, they may recoil or squirm, they may even make some vocalizations. However, two of the most prevalent signs are a rise in temperature ...

Father swan keeps coming into road and standing there -- Kathy -- 29 August 2016

For the past 2 weeks or so the father swan that lives in a brackish pond across the street (about 1 mile long and half a mile wide) has been separating itself from its mate and 7 cygnets. The cygnets ...

Re: Father swan keeps coming into road and standing there -- The Regal Swan -- 29 August 2016

Hi Kathy: Sometimes, the male swan will extend his range to exercise after the cygnets are grown or nearly grown. However, standing in the road is not a good idea and someone needs to stop him from ...

Re: Father swan keeps coming into road and standing there -- Kathy -- 30 August 2016

I think this is not the first born son because this swan has an orange beaks and the cygnets' beaks haven't turned orange yet. ALSO, last night I watched the mother swan approach the father swan's ...

Re: Father swan keeps coming into road and standing there -- The Regal Swan -- 30 August 2016

Hi Kathy: From the photo (thanks for providing), this is a juvenile swan, not an adult swan due to the color of its wings. It has brown/taupe grey on the back feathers, indicating that the juvenile ...

Weird Swan Chasing -- Niënor -- 28 August 2016

This morning I noticed two mute swans acting rather strangely. The swan infront appeared to be being chased by a swan behind it, the latter of which had it's neck down on it's back, and wings fluffed ...

Re: Weird Swan Chasing -- The Regal Swan -- 28 August 2016

Hi Nienor: It is rather late to be mating season, so the two most likely reasons would be territorial or that these are young juveniles playing chase. We have seen playful behavior in swans both ...

Swan Family missing from pond -- Suzie -- 25 August 2016

We live on a very large pond on Long Island. We have a pair of swans and 4 cygnets, about 4 months old. Yesterday, two other swans (we call them intruder swans) came into the pond. Usually, the two ...

Re: Swan Family missing from pond -- Ginnie -- 5 September 2016

I must live on the same pond. Are you by any chance on Fresh Pond. I have been so concerned with what has been going on. I am so glad to hear this reply. I did for the first time in almost 2 weeks ...

Re: Swan Family missing from pond -- The Regal Swan -- 25 August 2016

Hi Suzie: Are there any reeds or other grassy areas in or around the pond. Many times, if intruder swans appear and the parents cannot fend them off, they will take the cygnets through reeds and ...

Re: Swan Family missing from pond -- Suzie -- 26 August 2016

This morning I saw the swan family being chased across the pond by the intruder swans. Yes, there are some reeds and inlets in the pond where the family can hide, but I am worried for them. The ...

Re: Swan Family missing from pond -- The Regal Swan -- 26 August 2016

Hi Suzie: This is great news that you have seen the family. Yes, the cygnets will be hidden and protected by the parents until they can fly and then the parents my fly them into another safer area. ...

How to catch young injured swan -- Kelly -- 25 August 2016

I have recently found a young injured swan that has some siblings and still with the parents and it is impossible to catch by hand or in the water with the location. Is there a live trap you ...

Re: How to catch young injured swan -- The Regal Swan -- 25 August 2016

Hi Kelly: There is no way to use a trap or other such device. You will need to capture by hand or net using a boat/kayak, etc. However, since you are from Michigan, know that the Michigan DNR has ...

Baby Swan with injured leg -- Leigh -- 25 August 2016

Hello Swan Specialist, There is a friendly baby swan on my canal that has a swollen knee. This swan is having trouble keeping up with its 5 brothers/sisters and 2 parents. Is there any thing I can do ...

Re: Baby Swan with injured leg -- The Regal Swan -- 25 August 2016

Hi Leigh: Since you are in England and we are not sure your location, we would strongly suggest that you contact the RSPCA in your area or Wendy Hermon, Swan Support in Datchet. They will be able to ...

Swans leave water to my house 200ft away at night -- Michele -- 24 August 2016

Hi.....I feed swans twice per day - waterfowl food. There are four of them....white mute swans -- very friendly. They have been coming up at dusk turning dark out of the water to my house 200 ft away ...

Re: Swans leave water to my house 200ft away at night -- The Regal Swan -- 25 August 2016

Hi Michele: Yes, this is a very dangerous situation for the swans. You need to construct some sort of feeder approximately 4-5 feet off the bank in which the swans can continually feed. This is why ...

Re: Swans leave water to my house 200ft away at night -- Michele -- 26 August 2016

Thank you very much.....

Re: Swans leave water to my house 200ft away at night -- The Regal Swan -- 28 August 2016

Hi Michele: You are very welcome. Please let us know if we might be of further assistance and let us know how this situation progresses. The Regal Swan

Swans hiding in tall grass in pond -- Judy -- 21 August 2016

i live on a pond in Canton MA with two side coves. We have had a pair of swan here for 3 years. One set of swans basically live on my side cove. They had baby and all died. There was 2 pairs and two ...

Re: Swans hiding in tall grass in pond -- The Regal Swan -- 23 August 2016

Hi Judy: Your two swans are hiding from the swans that they were fighting. The dominating swans basically have told your swans that they own the pond. So, for the time being, your swans are hiding ...

Lonely swan -- Shauna -- 19 August 2016

I live in Enfield in the UK there was a pair of swans that had babies but the babies went of but for the last couple of days the male swasn hasn't come back and the female looks so lost without him ...

Re: Lonely swan -- The Regal Swan -- 20 August 2016

Hi Shauna: The lone swan could actually be one of the cygnets that did not leave with the parents. In any case, please contact Wendy Hermon, Swan Support, Datchet UK. She and her rescue team might be ...

Lone swan -- Chris -- 17 August 2016

How can we help one swan who seems to have lost its mate?

Re: Lone swan -- The Regal Swan -- 18 August 2016

Hi Chris: More than likely, the lone swan is a lone swan for the following reasons: 1. If this swan is a juvenile from this year, the parents have kicked it out of the habitat to begin preparing for ...

Swan and geese flying together? -- Kecia -- 14 August 2016

Have u ever seen a swan fly with a goose?

Re: Swan and geese flying together? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 August 2016

Hi Kecia: Yes, we have seen swans fly with geese. Usually, both species fly at different levels such as during migration, etc. However, if they are in the same area and disturbed, then they will all ...

Black Swan Rescue -- Kathi -- 13 August 2016

Hi! I live on a ten acre farm with a one acre pond in Bucks County PA . I am being offered three black swans that were rescued from a hording situation. I have no other water fowl on the pond except ...

Re: Black Swan Rescue -- The Regal Swan -- 14 August 2016

Hi Kathi: Thank you for caring about the swans and the rescuers that rescued them. There are several issues with Australian Black Swans that can pose some difficulty. First, you will need to protect ...

Swan family killed - does surviving pen need help? -- Anne -- 11 August 2016

Hello, we live in Yorkshire in the UK. Not far from us there are are big ponds, frequented by anglers and dog walkers, with lots of aquatic birds living and nesting in the area. We have been ...

Re: Swan family killed - does surviving pen need help? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 August 2016

Hi Anne If the mate was killed and she is just sitting there without trying to feed, swim and act normally for fear of something happening, then this is not a good situation for the swan. It also ...

Swan family killed - does surviving pen need help? -- Anne -- 13 August 2016

Thank you SO much for your quick reply - and we were most impressed that you could direct us to a source of help here in the UK! We contacted Wendy and she was incredibly helpful and reassuring in ...

Re: Swan family killed - does surviving pen need help? -- The Regal Swan -- 14 August 2016

Hi Anne You are very welcome. Glad to know that Wendy can help. If you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. The Regal Swan

Swans in hotel lobby: Is it a good environment? -- Kimi -- 9 August 2016

Hi, What is a healthy environment for a pair of swans? I was in Dallas, TX staying at the Embassy Suites and they had a pair of swans in a small pool (~15' in diameter). This seems monotonous and I'm ...

Re: Swans in hotel lobby: Is it a good environment? -- The Regal Swan -- 9 August 2016

Hi Kimi: Yes, we are aware of these swans as we were asked to look into the situation several years ago. Is the habitat safe and adequate, are the swans cared for daily and provided veterinary care? ...

The Twelve Days of Christmas: Bubbles and Swans a-Swimming -- Wanda -- 6 August 2016

Im' doing a 12 days of Christmas gifts, and for the swans swimming they said to give a bottle of bubbles. What do bubbles have in common with swans? I can't find anything on the internet that answers ...

Breeding swans in Malaysia -- Justin -- 5 August 2016

I have never seen a white/black swans in Malaysia and I'd like to start breeding them here. I'm not sure how to reach my goal in bringing these beautiful creatures in this part of the world. Do i ...

Re: Breeding swans in Malaysia -- The Regal Swan -- 6 August 2016

Hi Justin: More than likely, there are several reasons that you do not see swans in Malaysia. 1. The weather or the habitat is not suitable for certain species. 2. There is no interest in keeping ...

Returning surviving cygnet to parents after a deadly attack -- Elaine -- 4 August 2016

Hi there, Hope you are able to provide some advice. Melbourne, Australia - canal linking wetland systems with few landing spots along the canal. The canal is used by swan families to travel between ...

Blisters on foot -- Ardeanne -- 2 August 2016

I have a 23 yr old blackneck swan. My prior experience has been that aged swans (mutes & blacknecks) develop weakness in left leg. In past I have treated with prednisone. This blackneck has been ...

Re: Blisters on foot -- The Regal Swan -- 2 August 2016

Hi Ardeanne We have not seen a problem in the left leg in older swans and we have seen them as old as 26 years of age. The blisters could be the result of many things such as being burned while ...

Young swan still gray -- Jo -- 31 July 2016

I live on a small canal off the St. Clair River in Michigan. We have a few swans(mute) here and every year like to watch the babies swim with the parents. This year there were 3 babies now only 2. I ...

Re: Young swan still gray -- The Regal Swan -- 31 July 2016

Hi Jo: There a couple of reasons that one cygnet might be gray and one white. The runt (youngest smallest cygnet) has not yet turned white, but will in the very near future. Second, there is a color ...

Cygnet alone with no mother -- John -- 30 July 2016

I live down on the bay side on the jersey shore and recently a baby swan has been hanging around where I live in the lagoon. I have been seeing it in the lagoon outside my house everyday for about ...

Re: Cygnet alone with no mother -- The Regal Swan -- 31 July 2016

Hi John: How big is the cygnet? Is it still brown or turning more white? If it is turning white, then it is more than 8 months of age and the parents have probably chased it from the nest. However, ...

3 month old cygnet under mother -- KathY -- 29 July 2016

The cygnet is not a baby... it's about 3 months. The family had 7 cygnets and then 6...I went to the lake in Middletown, CT earlier this week and noticed the young cygnet trying to flap it's wings ...

Re: 3 month old cygnet under mother -- The Regal Swan -- 30 July 2016

Hi Kathy: Cygnets are still babies until at least 6 months of age. The cygnet you are describing may have been the runt and is still developing, even though it may look big and be 3 months of age. If ...

Late baby swan, survival -- Sandra -- 26 July 2016

I live in Michigan, USA and in the lake by my house there are 2 couples of mute swans. One couple has 3 cygnets, 3/4 of the size of parents by this time, all very healthy. The other couple has 2 ...

Re: Late baby swan, survival -- The Regal Swan -- 26 July 2016

Hi Sandra As long as predators or the Michigan DNR does not kill them, they should grow very quickly and go about their way. Michigan DNR like other state and federal wildlife authorities ...

Lone swan -- Mary -- 25 July 2016

We have a single white trumpeter swan that comes back every year to our small 30 acre lake without a mate. Why does he or she not find a mate? She or he is very content. Thank you for four expertise.

Re: Lone swan -- The Regal Swan -- 26 July 2016

Hi Mary This could behavior could be the result of several issues. 1. This is a young bird, under three years of age and has not yet reached mating age. Typically, finding a mate can occur between ...

8 week old girl trumpeter with splinted leg; foot is reddish purple -- Jeanne -- 19 July 2016

I have a baby girl (8 weeks) trumpeter who has a tendon in her leg which requires surgery to repair. In the meantime, we have her leg splinted to hold it straight behind her. She's not crying and ...

Re: 8 week old girl trumpeter with splinted leg; foot is reddish purple -- The Regal Swan -- 19 July 2016

Hi Jeanne It could be bruised and/or too tight. You might loosen slightly to ensure you are not cutting off circulation as this could cost her leg. You need to get her to the veterinarian as soon as ...

Re: 8 week old girl trumpeter with splinted leg; foot is reddish purple -- Jeanne -- 19 July 2016

I took her to the vet yesterday for Xrays. (Nothings broken, hooray!) Do you know of a specialist in the Central Arkansas area? My (exotic pet) vet says she has a friend in Tennessee who works for a ...

Re: 8 week old girl trumpeter with splinted leg; foot is reddish purple -- The Regal Swan -- 19 July 2016

Hi Jeanne No, we don't know anyone in your area. You might try a veterinary school/college that may have an exotic/waterfowl specialist. Univ. Tennessee at Knoxville comes to mind. Tendon surgery is ...

Separated mated swans -- Karen -- 18 July 2016

Hi i live on a boat in northamptonshire UK. A pair of swans mated and had 3 cygnets, the cob was injured and took away by the rspca. Mum has been rearing the young on her own successfully. The cob ...

Re: Separated mated swans -- The Regal Swan -- 19 July 2016

Hi Karen She is protecting the cygnets, but also displaying her displeasure with his disappearance and leaving her alone with the child care duties. She will eventually get over this and will accept ...

Alone white swan in ocean bay -- Pat -- 17 July 2016

for nearly a week a single white swan has been swimming alone in the ocean bay in cape cod. when a flock of geese swim by she or he tries to join in. I can't tell if she is lost or something happened ...

Re: Alone white swan in ocean bay -- The Regal Swan -- 17 July 2016

Hi Pat: This sounds like a young juvenile who has been dispatched from its habitat by the parents due to the nesting season. If this is the case, it will eventually move on because if the bay is ...

Mute Swan Cygnet still here -- Henry Smith -- 15 July 2016

Hello again, I wrote to you on the 31st of March about a Mute Swan Cygnet being aggressive to it's mother. Well the Cygnet is still here, we have a new brood of four cygnets and the last year's ...

Mystery swan behavior -- Steve -- 13 July 2016

Hi I am from Middlesbrough United Kingdom and a pair of swans in the local lake have all us locals baffled. If you can picture a park with a large lake and a metal fence all the way around it and a ...

Re: Mystery swan behavior -- The Regal Swan -- 14 July 2016

Hi Steve: There are several possibilities with this scenario. 1. These may be juvenile swans and are in their first year of nesting. Possibly, they have absolutely no idea what they are doing, but ...

Missing mate -- Debbie -- 12 July 2016

I live on a pond in Mass. Since 1999 I have had a pair of swans that have made it their habitat. I have grown extremely fond of them and as a result we have bonded. They come when I call them and ...

Re: Missing mate -- The Regal Swan -- 12 July 2016

Hi Debbie: There is always the chance that he was out flying and will come back. However, there are some other possibilities here. 1. Are you absolutely sure that the swan you are seeing is the ...

Two cygnets on our swimming pool -- Andy -- 9 July 2016

Hi, we found 2 cygnets on our swimming pool this afternoon. No sign of the parents. They came from a pond about 100 yards away. We returned them to the pond but still no sign of the parents. They ...

Re: Two cygnets on our swimming pool -- The Regal Swan -- 9 July 2016

Hi Andy Please try to capture the cygnets and hold them. It is very important that you contact the RSPCA or Wendy Hermon, Swan Support- Datchet, 44 7572 4509 67 Immediately. Without the parents, the ...

Swans in brackish water -- Gerry -- 7 July 2016

I've lived on a lagoon of brackish water by Barnegat Bay in Loveladies, N.J. for 48 years and never saw a swan among the many shore birds in this area. Today, for the first time, a pair of swans swan ...

Re: Swans in brackish water -- The Regal Swan -- 7 July 2016

Hi Gerry More than likely, the swans were flying through your area and we're trying to cool off. Once they rested and cooled, they went on their way. You are correct in that most swans need ...

Do ducks have ears? -- Dragon -- 5 July 2016

Do ducks have ears?

Re: Do ducks have ears? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 July 2016

Hi Dragon: Yes, ducks, geese, swans and all birds for that matter have ears. The ears are not seen and are buried beneath the feathers in an area behind the eyes. In the case of waterfowl, the ...

Swan needed (Philadelphia) -- Tom -- 4 July 2016

Could you help me find a female swan in need of a home within 100 miles of Philadelphia? One of our swans was killed by a fox and her sister is now alone. We are not interested in a male swan as the ...

Re: Swan needed (Philadelphia) -- Jeanmarie -- 13 July 2016

I have a female cygnet that is recovering from being bitten by a snapping turtle. The cygnet's wound was sutured by my vet and then had to be confined for about 2 weeks to make sure the opening ...

Re: Swan needed (Philadelphia) -- The Regal Swan -- 4 July 2016

Hi Tom: Unfortunately, we do not know of a swan breeder near Philadelphia. However, one that we consistently recommend is Bob Knox of Knox Swan and Dogs in Illinois. His stock is healthy and ...

Would a parent swan kill their daughter's cygnets? -- Sarah -- 4 July 2016

Hi I'm from Northampton UK, and wrote before, when I described a situation where there is a pair of swans on our local small lake, and their daughter (Sally!) from 4 or 5 years ago, who has ...

Re: Would a parent swan kill their daughter -- The Regal Swan -- 4 July 2016

Hi Sarah: It is possible, but not likely that the male parent killed the daughter's offspring. The major reason you may not be seeing the cygnets is that they are being hidden in an area away from ...

Re: Would a parent swan kill their daughter -- Sarah -- 9 July 2016

Thanks very much. Oddly, yesterday we thought we might have seen some other cygnets, but having gone right round the lake (it's very small) we could only see the parent ones. They would be quite ...

Re: Would a parent swan kill their daughter -- The Regal Swan -- 9 July 2016

Hi Sarah: Thanks for the update. Hopefully, if the cygnets did survive, you will see them in the coming weeks. The Regal swan

Will swans chase away other water birds? -- Jacqui -- 3 July 2016

We currently have geese and ducks on our pond and are keen to introduce a pair of breeding swans. Would black swans be the best choice? I've heard all swans will chase away any other water birds in ...

Re: Will swans chase away other water birds? -- The Regal Swan -- 4 July 2016

Hi Jacqui: The Australian Black Swans are much more defensive than the other species of swans. No matter which species, they may all chase your geese and ducks during the mating season. This is an ...

Cygnets disappear -- June -- 2 July 2016

Hi for the past two years swans on Fradley Junction near Lichfield have produced last year 6 then this year 7 cygnets. After a few weeks they have sadly disappeared. Many think it is a pike but ...

Re: Cygnets disappear -- The Regal Swan -- 2 July 2016

Hi June The list could include many species such as fox, mink, pike and other large month fish, hawks, owls, egrets, herons and turtles. Disease and injury along with other territorial waterfowl ...

Hypothetical swan as a pond protector against Blue Heron? -- Justin -- 27 June 2016

Hello, So my family has a pretty large pond on our property. Not only is it great for keeping koi and goldfish, it attracts a ton of wildlife. Deer, frogs, diving beetles, dragon flies, swallows, ...

Re: Hypothetical swan as a pond protector against Blue Heron? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 June 2016

Hi Justin: No, the swans would not scare the Great Blue Heron from the pond. If you were to get a pair of swans and they produced cygnets (baby swans), the Great Blue Heron would also predate the ...

Swan following my baby girl -- Maryanne -- 23 June 2016

Hi this is purely just for my own curiosity. I was at a beach on luss in scotland and sat my baby daughter on the sand to take a picture a large swan appeared in the water from nowhere and swam ...

Re: Swan following my baby girl -- The Regal Swan -- 23 June 2016

Hi Maryanne: This sounds like a young juvenile swan or a very tame swan that is used to people and was probably looking for food. If it was someone's pet, it may have gotten lost and as looking for ...

2 females with one male? -- Sherry -- 23 June 2016

Hi, I have a pinioned female mute swan and a female (I think) mute swan from a rescue who's wings are not clipped. This one flew away 3 months ago so I now am raising a male (I think) pinioned cygnet ...

Re: 2 females with one male? -- The Regal Swan -- 23 June 2016

Hi Sherry: If they are all females, then there should not be a problem. If there is a male and two females, there will be a female left out during mating season, and they may chase her, but usually, ...

Swan on our loch -- Val -- 22 June 2016

We have two swans on our local loch. Our garden leads down to the water's edge and tonight one of the swans came up onto the grass embankment and has been sitting there for 3/4 hours. It seems ...

Re: Swan on our loch -- The Regal Swan -- 22 June 2016

Hi Val: If it is leaving the water and reluctant to get back in, it means that it is being chased by something, either a predator or an older swan(s). If it is a juvenile, then the parents are ...

Can mute swans and trumpeter swans mate? -- Trisha -- 20 June 2016

There is a little lake next to my house that two swans are at. The male is a trumpeter swan and the female is a mute swan. She has been sitting on 5 eggs for over 6 weeks. Can those different types ...

Re: Can mute swans and trumpeter swans mate? -- The Regal Swan -- 21 June 2016

Hi Trisha Great question. Are you sure that the one swan is a Trumpeter and that it is a male? The reasons that we ask these two questions are: 1. Usually, two species of wildlife do not ( because in ...

Re: Can mute swans and trumpeter swans mate? -- Trisha -- 21 June 2016

Yes, I am sure the male is a Trumpeter, and I've always been told he is a male, but I have no idea how to tell that for sure. He has been around the same place for 5 years. The girl was brought in ...

Re: Can mute swans and trumpeter swans mate? -- The Regal Swan -- 21 June 2016

Hi Trisha Thanks for the update. The female swan knows from heartbeats and movement in the egg. If the egg goes bad, she will roll it out of the nest. Again, she knows what she is doing and will ...

Should we remove 2 month old egg? -- Sheree -- 20 June 2016

We are trying to decide if we should remove the only egg laid by our 2 year old mute swan or let nature take its course. The egg was first noticed around April 10 2016. She is diligent and only ...

Re: Should we remove 2 month old egg? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 June 2016

Hi Sheree: Swan counting is different than human counting. As long as the mother is continuing to care for the eggs, you need to let nature take its course. She will not continue to sitting on any ...

3 Year Old Male Trumpeter Has Become Attached to Baby Pekins? -- Shalimar -- 19 June 2016

We have a very large pond with farm ducks, wild ducks and a beautiful pair of 3 year old Trumpeters (Romeo & Dutchess) we've had for two years. We added a protected nesting area, and there is ...

Re: 3 Year Old Male Trumpeter Has Become Attached to Baby Pekins? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 June 2016

Hi Shalimar: The fact that the swans built a nest and did not lay eggs could mean several things. First, most swans are no sexually mature until 2-3 years of age, so you may have 2 juveniles that ...

Ability of young cygnets to walk quite a distance? -- Hadassah -- 16 June 2016

There is a small lake/large pond that I walk around daily [just a half mile around], there have been a Trumpeter swan pair that have showed up to feed on a regular basis, one or both fly in and then ...

Re: Ability of young cygnets to walk quite a distance? -- The Regal Swan -- 16 June 2016

Hi Hadassah: Swans are extremely resourceful when it comes to moving from one area to another looking for a better habitat especially when safety and food resources are required. Swans, especially ...

Our swans of 11 years: Disappeared -- Janice -- 16 June 2016

Hi. I'm very worried as our pair of swans have been in our local pond for 11 years. They have had babies every year but last year they all died. This year they had four babies 2 weeks ago but the ...

Re: Our swans of 11 years: Disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 16 June 2016

Hi Janice: If something or someone (predators) scared the family, they will seek a safer habitat for the swans. They may have taken a stream or other waterway to another area for not only protection ...

Re: Our swans of 11 years: Disappeared -- Lexi -- 16 June 2016

The oddest thing happened to us Janice. We've had a swan couple here for years! They had two babies, and were so happy here in our part of the river. A couple of days ago our swan family have been ...

Re: Our swans of 11 years: Disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 16 June 2016

Hi Lexi: Here is the info we sent to Janice: If something or someone (predators) scared the family, they will seek a safer habitat for the swans. They may have taken a stream or other waterway to ...

Cygnets have disappeared -- Jackie -- 15 June 2016

I live on a small lake, and each year we have 2 swans who live here. They recently had 3 cygnets, which I saw once, and then they have all disappeared. The adult swans have been swimming around the ...

Re: Cygnets have disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 15 June 2016

Hi Jackie: If the cygnets are very small, 1 week of age or less, then the mother can hide them among the reeds, carry them under her wings out of sight, or hide them in the nest. Usually, after 1-2 ...

Would black swan migrate? -- Steph -- 13 June 2016

I live in PA and I want to get a black swan as a pet but I'm wondering if it would need to migrate for the winter or what would not need done?

Re: Would black swan migrate? -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2016

Hi Steph No, the swan will not migrate as you will have to have him pinioned (permanently rendered unable to fly) or clipped every 4 months so that he cannot fly. An Australian Black Swan is deemed ...

Swan capture -- Lynne -- 13 June 2016

Hi, I live in a retirement community, and we have a pair of swans (male & female) residing in the community pond. The male is very aggressive during nesting season, and we would like to move him ...

Re: Swan capture -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2016

Hi Lynne This would not be an ideal solution as he will try to get back to his family and habitat which could get him seriously injured or killed by a predator or traffic. The mother swan will also ...

Release -- Mel -- 12 June 2016

If you buy a bred swan can it be released into the wild at a local pond ?

Re: Release -- The Regal Swan -- 12 June 2016

Hi Mel No, the swan does not know about predators, how to protect itself from predators or how to find food. If bred in captivity, a swan needs to be found a safe, secure and adequate captive setting ...

Swam fight or mating? -- Annie -- 12 June 2016

There were two swans one male and one female that we're getting very aggressive today, they were biting at each others wings, aggressively pecking at necks and pulling on each other's feather so much ...

Re: Swam fight or mating? -- The Regal Swan -- 12 June 2016

Hi Annie This could have been fighting by two males either fighting over a female or one male protecting it's mate and habitat. Sometimes, fighting males will get on top of another to show dominance ...

Swan nest got flooded, new eggs appearing -- Karen -- 12 June 2016

Hello. You helped me last year with a nesting issue. This year, one nest washed away before the eggs were laid. They built another. For some reason she moved the eggs off the nest to a lower level, ...

Re: Swan nest got flooded, new eggs appearing -- The Regal Swan -- 12 June 2016

Hi Karen More than likely, she worked to raise the nesting bowl underneath to keep the eggs safe. She could have laid a total of six eggs and lost only 3. Swans can double clutch, (add more eggs), ...

Re: Swan nest got flooded, new eggs appearing -- Karen -- 13 June 2016

Thank you! Actually, I watch so closely the process, I know she had 4 eggs for several weeks. all 4 ended up submerged in water briefly. 1 was lost for sure and discarded. I think you are right, as I ...

Re: Swan nest got flooded, new eggs appearing -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2016

Hi Karen You are very welcome. Good news. Please let us know if the eggs hatch. The Regal Swan

Re: Swan nest got flooded, new eggs appearing -- Karen -- 17 June 2016

Hello. SADLY, after watching this nest, throwing reeds during high tides to help them hang on...the cygnets did not hatch. They stayed to the bitter end, and the babies just were not healthy enough ...

Re: Swan nest got flooded, new eggs appearing -- The Regal Swan -- 17 June 2016

Hi Karen We're so sorry to hear this. Hopefully, the swans learn from this and seek higher ground next year. Thanks for letting us know. The Regal Swan

Re: Swan nest got flooded, new eggs appearing -- Karen -- 18 June 2016

Hello, she is back on the nest!!!! yesterday I saw her about 80 yards away from the nest eating. I assumed she abandoned. I could not believe my eyes today! Is that unusual for her to be that far ...

Re: Swan nest got flooded, new eggs appearing -- The Regal Swan -- 18 June 2016

Hi Karen Yes, she apparently knows more than us about the condition of the eggs. Typically, if there were no chance of viability, she would abandon them. By continuing to sit and care for the eggs, ...

Three swans flying - teaching flight? -- Kay -- 11 June 2016

Hi, I just watched three swans flying together; but they weren't really heading anywhere, just made some large swooping S's back and forth over the distance, didn't seem to land, then headed back ...

Re: Three swans flying - teaching flight? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2016

Hi Kay Yes, this would be a training flight with either one parent and two juveniles or two parents and one juvenile. Had there been more juveniles, obviously there would have been more swans testing ...

Cygnet can't walk or stand -- Wells -- 10 June 2016

I was called to rescue cygnet that was abandoned by family. Little guy couldn't keep up and would repeatedly fall and can't get up. Seems otherwise healthy but has very limited use of legs. No ...

Re: Cygnet can't walk or stand -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2016

Hi Wells There are several possibilities: 1. Could have sustained a soft tissue injury trying to keep up, so you might try some light rehab in the water with you stand you by. Do 2-3 times a day for ...

Missing swans and cygnets -- Kerry -- 11 June 2016

On our lake we had pair of swans who raised 2 cygnets last year and then this year had 5 cygnets. All doing well but they have all gone missing. We cannot see any foul play as I would have thought ...

Re: Missing swans and cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2016

Hi Kerry There is a possibility that a predator may have taken them, are under mom's wing, or she has them resting somewhere. To be sure, you will need to look for them for a couple more days. You ...

The disappearance of swan signets in MA -- Rachel -- 9 June 2016

Hello, I have been following a pair of mute swans for many months that live on a nearby pond. Eight eggs, then 7 babies. One died right away and 6 have developed well, are swimming and eating at 6 ...

Re: The disappearance of swan signets in MA -- The Regal Swan -- 10 June 2016

Hi Rachel Are you sure the mom does not have them on her back or keeping them under or nearby the reeds? This is normal behavior for swans to hide their young from predators especially at a young age ...

Mute Swan Hunting in NJ -- Maya -- 8 June 2016

Hello! Do you know if it is illegal to hunt mute swans in New Jersey?

Re: Mute Swan Hunting in NJ -- The Regal Swan -- 8 June 2016

Hi Maya It is illegal to hunt them, but the NJ DNR regularly kills them under the guise of an invasive species and for health monitoring. Both of these practices is to receive federal funding to ...

Re: Mute Swan Hunting in NJ -- concerned -- 4 February 2017

Mute swans pose a serious threat to the environment. The lake in my local park has no waterfowl at all because mute swans are there and scare away all the other birds. However, just a mile ...

Re: Mute Swan Hunting in NJ -- The Regal Swan -- 4 February 2017

Dear Concerned: We would love to see your research that documents that the Mute Swans are detrimental to the environment or other waterfowl/wildlife. The erroneous points you make are the same that ...

Why is the male swan taken away from the female -- Dora -- 8 June 2016

My residential area has a pond and a pair of swans are leased and placed in the pond every spring. Last year shortly after the cygnets were born, the male swan was taken away for a while and returned ...

Re: Why is the male swan taken away from the female -- The Regal Swan -- 8 June 2016

Hi Dora During mating/nesting season, swans have an increase in sex hormones. This is especially true of the males. In your case, the male may be taken off the pond until the testosterone levels ...

Cygnet Deaths -- Jen -- 8 June 2016

I recently moved to a lake. A pair of swans had 4 cygnets we enjoyed watching. Then there were 3. Soon after one of the 3 was injured and stayed on the shore. Of course it soon disappeared. The next ...

Re: Cygnet Deaths -- The Regal Swan -- 8 June 2016

Hi Jen This is nesting/mating season so the level of sex hormones is high and will take a couple of weeks to return to normal. In the meantime, this increased testosterone level will cause over ...

Why did swans leave my pond? -- Ziggy -- 8 June 2016

Hi - I have a very large pond in France and we have ducks - for many years there were swans in the pond but for the last 5 years we have not seen them - any idea why they would not return? And how ...

Re: Why did swans leave my pond? -- The Regal Swan -- 8 June 2016

Hi Ziggy There are many reasons that the swans did not return: Loss of food resources Better resources on another nearby pond, especially if people are feeding them Lost on the migratory path or ...

Runt gosling -- Stacey -- 8 June 2016

We have a Canadian geese family with 3 normal growing goslings and one runt who appears to be staying very small. He is still yellow and his siblings are now getting their tail pin feathers and adult ...

Re: Runt gosling -- The Regal Swan -- 8 June 2016

Hi Stacey: As long as the runt is eating, there is nothing anatomically wrong or he is not ill, is keeping up with the parents and the parents are still looking after it, then he has a great chance ...

Cygnet not with parents -- Amy -- 8 June 2016

Hello, I have become quite enamored with the 2 mute swans that swim in the bay in front of my house in New England and watched them next. They had one cygnet around the 3rd week of April this year ...

Re: Cygnet not with parents -- The Regal Swan -- 8 June 2016

Hi Amy: Usually, swan parents will not leave their cygnets alone until they are much older. Could the cygnet have been on the mother's back under her wings so you could not see it? Carrying the ...

RE: cygnet not with parents -- Amy -- 20 June 2016

Hello the Regal Swan! Thank you so much for answering my question. Turns out, the family was back together the next day and I panicked for nothing. They are outside swimming as I type and the cygnet ...

Re: RE: cygnet not with parents -- The Regal Swan -- 20 June 2016

Hi Amy: You are very welcome. This is great news and we're glad that the family has reunited. The Regal Swan

Swan walking right down the center of the road.... -- Chuck -- 7 June 2016

I live in rural central Texas and as I was driving home yesterday there was a beautiful swan walking down the middle of my country road. I stopped and got out to see if he/she was wounded. I couldn't ...

Re: Swan walking right down the center of the road.... -- The Regal Swan -- 7 June 2016

Hi Chuck: There are several reasons for this behavior. The swan may have gotten tired of flying and landed in the nearby area or was walking to look for another pond. If it had been raining, ...

Destroyed and abandoned nest -- Susan -- 6 June 2016

My 22 yr old son and myself have been watching a swan nest with the Swan incubating 4 eggs. We went yesterday and the swans had gone and the nest seemed to have been destroyed. The nest was in a reed ...

Re: Destroyed and abandoned nest -- The Regal Swan -- 6 June 2016

Hi Susan: This sounds as if a predator (human or wild) attacked the nest and destroyed it. If this was the case, the parents would have escaped with their lives and left the area. They will not come ...

One swan parent killed -- Inge -- 6 June 2016

On the 4th of June 2016, in The Hague, The Netherlands, the mother swan was killed by a car on a parking lot nearby a field hockey club. The father swan and three little baby swans were standing by ...

Re: One swan parent killed -- The Regal Swan -- 6 June 2016

Hi Inge: We are sorry for your loss. Although the male and the cygnets may have experienced a small period of grief, nature does not allow them to grieve for any extended period of time such as found ...

Mute swan female with black swan eyes -- Paul -- 6 June 2016

Hi I have seen a female mute swan with red eyes like a black swan. Can you explain this

Re: Mute swan female with black swan eyes -- The Regal Swan -- 6 June 2016

Hi Paul: We have not seen this and would love to see some photos if you could get them. Normally, when you see such red eyes in the Mute Swans, it is an eye infection such as conjunctivitis. Again, ...

Swans brought their cygnets through 2 fields and fencing -- Sue and Mario -- 4 June 2016

Hi we have a swan couple that have had cygnets on a lake in one field, but have moved them to our lake, which is over two fields and fencing away. We want to know how they brought the young with ...

Re: Swans brought their cygnets through 2 fields and fencing -- The Regal Swan -- 4 June 2016

Hi Sue and Mario: More than likely, the cygnets were walked until they tired. Then, the female swan could have transported them along a small stream that you may not know about. The mother swan can ...

The Missing Swan -- John -- 2 June 2016

A pair of swans have nested on the Canal opposite for 5 years. Recently it looks as though the mother Swan who was spending most of its time on the nest has left, leaving the nest and male. Swan ...

Re: The Missing Swan -- John -- 4 June 2016

I will keep my eye on the nest. The two swans shared an area with two distinct rest areas. The area where the female was incubating eggs on the higher and the male slightly lower where it still ...

Re: The Missing Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 4 June 2016

Hi John: You are very welcome. Yes, please let us know how this situation progresses. The Regal Swan

Re: The Missing Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 2 June 2016

Hi John: Are you absolutely sure that it is the male on the nest? Typically, male swans (unless an individual or species attribute) do not incubate the eggs. So, if the swan is returning back to the ...

Mute swan feeding behavior -- Makai -- 1 June 2016

I recently have been observing a mute swan for a report in my biology class and noticed a unusual behavior. After this swan takes a bite of grass from the shore it dips it's beak into the pond and ...

Re: Mute swan feeding behavior -- The Regal Swan -- 1 June 2016

Hi Makai Swans must have water to eat, otherwise they would choke. So, once the food (grass) is in the water, the swan feeds and drinks at the same time to facilitate ease in swallowing. The Regal ...

Baby swan weaning -- Barry -- 1 June 2016

How long before we can remove a newly hatched baby swan from its mother, and move it to another pond? With other swans!

Re: Baby swan weaning -- The Regal Swan -- 1 June 2016

Hi Barry A cygnet (baby swan) needs to be with its mother for at least 6-8 months. This is the time needed for the mother to teach it how to be a swan, recognize, avoid and escape predators, search ...

Mute swans and their cygnets moved to adjacent pond -- Ally -- 30 May 2016

Hello, A pair of mute swans have nested on one of the several ponds on our local golf course. The 5 cygnets were viewed for the first time 3 days ago, but the whole family have moved to an adjacent ...

Re: Mute swans and their cygnets moved to adjacent pond -- The Regal Swan -- 30 May 2016

Hi Ally: The parent swans will move the cygnets away from the nest to prevent predators from finding them. The parents may also know that there is better protection in the new pond, less predators ...

Male widower swan won't accept a new female -- Dawn -- 30 May 2016

Hello. Two years ago we had a pair of swans on our lake. The female died and the male is alone. He appears to be thriving. About a month ago, we had at least 13 swans on our lake at one time. We ...

Re: Male widower swan won -- The Regal Swan -- 30 May 2016

Hi Dawn: More than likely, the three swans were two parents and a juvenile female which the parents dropped off to find a mate and a new habitat. Your male swan may or may not accept her as a mate as ...

Eggs left unattended for over 3 days -- YJ -- 29 May 2016

Hi, I've been watching our local canal swans, she's laid her eggs and I saw 3 eggs, mum and dad have been active but they haven't been seen for 4 days now, 2 of the eggs are still there (don't know ...

Re: Eggs left unattended for over 3 days -- The Regal Swan -- 29 May 2016

Hi YJ If the eggs were not fertile or non-viable the parents would have abandoned the nest and other eggs. If the third egg hatched, then the parents would have taken the young swan out of the nest ...

Swan fight to the death ! -- Maxie -- 28 May 2016

I have an issue regarding two male swans fighting in my 4 acre lake. I started with two white mute swans and two black ones. They were all raised together from just a few months old to now ...

Re: Swan fight to the death ! -- The Regal Swan -- 29 May 2016

Hi Maxie: Unfortunately, the male black swan may have gotten familiar with the female black swan, but was not introduced properly to the other swans on the pond. It was also introduced at the wrong ...

Lone swan on the sea -- Linda -- 29 May 2016

Yesterday we gathered as a family to scatter the ashes of our parents, we done this in a favourite spot of our childhood where our parents used to take us, Reculver beach, the tide was coming in ...

Re: Lone swan on the sea -- The Regal Swan -- 29 May 2016

Hi Linda: We are sorry for your loss and the beauty of a swan in such a situation only makes it more special. Yes, swans will go out to sea if they are on the migratory path and may stop to rest from ...

New nest after eggs hatch & cygnets & parent swans -- Nancy -- 28 May 2016

Swans on our lake have left their nest and relocated with their young newly hatched cygnets. Is it typical that new families with their offspring build a new nest or relocate still on same small lake ...

Re: New nest after eggs hatch & cygnets & parent swans -- The Regal Swan -- 29 May 2016

Hi Nancy: Once the cygnets are approximately 1-2 weeks of age, the mother will get them out of the nest and as far away as possible in the same lake so that predators do not find the cygnets. This ...

How to relocate swan and her babies -- Richard -- 27 May 2016

How do I relocate a mama Swan and her babies? They are in the lake close to boats and need to be relocated away from the boats. Thank you, Richard

Re: How to relocate swan and her babies -- The Regal Swan -- 29 May 2016

Hi Richard: Unfortunately, you cannot relocate them without you receiving a fine and the birds killed. The Ohio DNR is perpetuating the same misrepresentations about the Mute Swans as other state and ...

3 week old cygnets have one leg on their back -- Betty -- 25 May 2016

Juliet hatch 3 cygnets three weeks ago. I noticed all three when in the water have one leg on their backs. I've seen adult swans rest their leg on their back but never cygnets 3 weeks old. The ...

Re: 3 week old cygnets have one leg on their back -- The Regal Swan -- 25 May 2016

Hi Betty This is normal behavior. Some researchers believe that not only is this a resting position, but also a means to dissipate heat. Swan feet have many blood vessels which can displace heat and ...

Swan "adoption": 7 additional cygnets, in addition to the inital 7 -- Holly -- 23 May 2016

We have a swan pair that has nested on our lagoon for the last 3 years. Ordinarily the pair stayed near the nest area with the offspring throughout the year. This year the swan gave birth to 7 ...

Re: Swan "adoption": 7 additional cygnets, in addition to the inital 7 -- The Regal Swan -- 23 May 2016

Hi Holly: This is an interesting question as geese will commonly accept orphaned goslings, but swans usually will chase and may accidently kill another swan's cygnets should they get into the ...

Re: Swan "adoption": 7 additional cygnets, in addition to the inital 7 -- Holly -- 24 May 2016

The pair have had two previous births so I am not sure if they would be considered a "young" couple. Also, I can't see that they may be from the same couple but a different nest because all ...

Re: Swan "adoption": 7 additional cygnets, in addition to the inital 7 -- The Regal Swan -- 24 May 2016

Hi Holly: This is certainly a perplexing case. The only other possibility is that the first seven hatched out first and the parents took them out onto the pond and kept the younger seven in the nest ...

Re: Swan "adoption": 7 additional cygnets, in addition to the inital 7 -- Holly -- 25 May 2016

Yes it is perplexing!! Hopefully we will be able to see where they are going and if there is another nest somewhere. We were actually able to watch when the babies were first hatched and their next ...

Re: Swan "adoption": 7 additional cygnets, in addition to the inital 7 -- The Regal Swan -- 25 May 2016

Hi Holly Yes, please keep us posted. The Regal Swan

Geese & Swans -- Patricia -- 22 May 2016

What threat do geese pose to swans? The male swan continually chases all geese off of our small lake. They are permitted along the shoreline, but not in the lake. The Swan does have a mate and ...

Re: Geese & Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 22 May 2016

Hi Patricia: This is normal behavior, especially during mating and nesting season. This normal behavior is continually misrepresented by the Michigan DNR taxpayers so that the Mute Swans seem to be ...

Swan Fertility -- Rebecca -- 21 May 2016

My swans were nesting at the same place they have for the last few years, but a couple of weeks ago, Mama wasn't there anymore. Daddy Swan continued to stop by each day to get his ration of shelled ...

Re: Swan Fertility -- The Regal Swan -- 22 May 2016

Hi Rebecca: There are several reasons for this behavior. Yes, the swans can lose fertility as they age. But, there are also other possible causes: 1. The mother has a nest and is taking a break. Swan ...

Very cute picture: Cygnet climbing on its mother's back -- Sarah -- 21 May 2016

Hi, Just a quick hello from the UK. I very much enjoy reading your website and you answered a question for me a while ago. I'm attaching a picture my husband took of the newly hatched cygnets on our ...

Re: Very cute picture: Cygnet climbing on its mother -- The Regal Swan -- 22 May 2016

Hi Sarah: Thanks for the photo and the kind words. Swans, some geese and ducks carry their young on their back. This allows the young birds to rest, sleep, stay with the mother, kept warm and dry and ...

Abandoned Cygnet -- Rick -- 20 May 2016

Well...another question if you don't mind.... It looks like our swan family that lost 2 to the dog earlier today, has now abandoned another one....they were all together for several hours after the ...

Re: Abandoned Cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 20 May 2016

Hi Rick Yes, seems you all are having a rough time, but this happens when predators, domestic or wild attack other species, especially birds. The abandoned cygnet may be injured or too little (the ...

Hook and line in swan's mouth -- Lucille -- 20 May 2016

The male with the bad neck is doing better. Neck is better, but what we noticed is that he snagged a hook with line in his mouth. He's eating, but rather lethargic. We feel that by trying to free ...

Re: Hook and line in swan -- The Regal Swan -- 20 May 2016

Hi Lucille: The reason that the swan is not eating and lethargic is that it is starving from being able to eat without pain. The line and hook may be preventing him from swallowing or eating. You ...

Cygnets killed. Do swan parents mourn? -- Rick -- 20 May 2016

Two of the 8 cygnets of a swan family on our lake was killed by a neighbor dog. Unfortunately my kids saw it happened and got very upset. I tried to reassure them that the swans, once they realized ...

Re: Cygnets killed. Do swan parents mourn? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 May 2016

Hi Rick: Nature does not provide time for prolonged mourning by animals and birds, otherwise the entire family and flock is susceptible to disease, predators, and other catastrophes from the stress. ...

Mother swan abandoned 2 remaining eggs after the others hatched -- Morissa -- 20 May 2016

Hello, I have 2 swans that have mated and have laid 4 eggs, the female has nested and 2 of the eggs have hatched, now that the 2 babies have hatched the mother doesn't want to anything to do with the ...

Re: Mother swan abandoned 2 remaining eggs after the others hatched -- The Regal Swan -- 20 May 2016

Hi Morissa: How long has the mother swan been away from the eggs? If there is any significant time, (more than 2 hours), then you can safely assume that she is not going to take care of eggs that ...

Introducing 4 month swan to a single swan adult, partner died -- mivhaelramberg -- 19 May 2016

We have a 4 month old black swan we want to introduce to an adult black swan. The adult swan partner died 2 months ago. Our swan is very lonely. They are both female. We have isolated baby swan for ...

Re: Introducing 4 month swan to a single swan adult, partner died -- The Regal Swan -- 19 May 2016

Hi You need a slow introduction to ensure that the cygnet will not be chased, nipped or otherwise stressed from not being allowed in the habitat by the older swan. The older swan may not readily ...

Swan tail -- Samuel -- 19 May 2016

Do swans have tails?

Re: Swan tail -- The Regal Swan -- 19 May 2016

Hi Samuel: Great question! Yes, swans have tails. Some researchers believe that swans wag their tails when they feel stressed or threatened. However, we have observed tail wagging when swans greet ...

Male swan has injured his neck -- Lucille -- 18 May 2016

Male swan has injured his neck, blunt trama of some sort. He cannot raise his neck and has disappeared. The female is raising 4 cygnets, they are 2 weeks old. Do these types of injuries heal? I ...

Re: Male swan has injured his neck -- The Regal Swan -- 18 May 2016

Hi Lucille The type of injury determines if it will heal. There are other issues that can cause neurological problems which prevent control of the neck muscles such as ingestion of bacteriological ...

Swan not being able to nest -- Nancy -- 17 May 2016

We have 2 swans on our pond. They nested last year and had 5 babies. This year people living on the pond (stating they love watching them) have destroyed the first nest and barricaded the best area ...

Re: Swan not being able to nest -- The Regal Swan -- 17 May 2016

Hi Nancy If the swan needs to lay eggs, she will drop them regardless of a nest. The swans will also go somewhere else to nest if their nesting area is displaced. The worst possible scenario would be ...

Mute swan without a mate: Is it better to remove the eggs? -- Ellen -- 16 May 2016

This particular swan is at least a ten year resident of a local pond. She has created a nest and has laid 8 eggs which have not been fertilized, as she has no mate. Wondering whether she will abandon ...

Re: Mute swan without a mate: Is it better to remove the eggs? -- The Regal Swan -- 16 May 2016

Hi Ellen: This is absolutely normal behavior for a swan. During mating/nesting season, regardless of the presence of a mate, the sex hormones increase. Male swans will build nests and obviously, no ...

Re: Mute swan without a mate: Is it better to remove the eggs? -- Den -- 17 May 2016

Hi Guys, who says this swan is without mate and these eggs are infertile? From what I see there are two couples and 2 nests. Also, several locals, one of them claimed to have a degree in nature ...

Eggs missing or still in the nest, covered by nesting material? -- Bob -- 13 May 2016

The swans in our local park laid 9 eggs; a few days later they were all gone. The swans still continue to sit on the nest. My question is are the eggs still in the nest, is it usual for the swans to ...

Re: Eggs missing or still in the nest, covered by nesting material? -- The Regal Swan -- 13 May 2016

Hi Bob: If the park staff or a predator removed the eggs, this would cause the swans to know that something is amiss and then they will either abandon the nest entirely or try to replenish the nest ...

Swan and Goose "friends"? -- Merri -- 13 May 2016

We live on a small lake, lots of geese use it as a stop over each year. We do have 2 pairs that come back every year to have babies. This March a beautiful lone Swan appeared, we don't think he had a ...

Re: Swan and Goose "friends"? -- The Regal Swan -- 13 May 2016

Hi Merri: More than likely, what you are seeing is a juvenile swan and a juvenile goose that were told by the parents, leave their nesting area and find a mate and new habitat for yourselves. Since ...

Cygnet foaming at the bill -- James -- 13 May 2016

I have Cygnet mute swan that is all of a sudden foaming at the bill. Why would this be happening? Help plz

Re: Cygnet foaming at the bill -- The Regal Swan -- 13 May 2016

Hi James Usually blowing bubbles from the mouth which appears as foam is a possible indicator of heat stress. We have seen this situation in the heat of Florida while capturing swans. Usually, this ...

Re: Cygnet foaming at the bill -- James -- 13 May 2016

Hello the cygnet is about 1 month old. it was rescued because the parents were trying to kill it. i was told she was injured as a result of the father stomping on her so i have 2 of them that were ...

Re: Cygnet foaming at the bill -- The Regal Swan -- 13 May 2016

Hi James Does seem like some type of stress, but keep monitoring. Also, swimming on side may indicate a neurological problem. The lungs have little air pockets so birds do not do well if they lay on ...

Two swans flew off, leaving a third one alone -- Jessica -- 11 May 2016

We recently had 2 swans new to our pond. . They stayed two weeks, left for 2 days and returned with another swan. All 3 stayed for 2 weeks and then 2 flew off 3 days ago leaving one alone. I have ...

Re: Two swans flew off, leaving a third one alone -- The Regal Swan -- 11 May 2016

Hi Jessica: This situation is occurring worldwide at this time of the year. Nesting and mating season is upon us and the swans as well as other birds have returned from their migratory paths to begin ...

Year old swans won't leave pond -- Jill -- 11 May 2016

We have a pond behind us that has a pair of trumpeter swans that have their wings clipped. The neighbors feed the parent swans and the pond is fenced in. They mate every and have babies. They have ...

Re: Year old swans won -- The Regal Swan -- 11 May 2016

Hi Jill: Because the parents can't fly, they have not been able to show the young where to go and offer alternate habitats. Eventually, the cygnets will leave or they will be constantly harassed ...

Well being of a female mute swan who has been sitting on the nest for a month -- John -- 10 May 2016

The male of a pair of mute swans was killed and the eggs addled. The female has been sitting on them for a month now. What are the chances of the female surviving? Will she continue to sit on the ...

Re: Well being of a female mute swan who has been sitting on the nest for a month -- The Regal Swan -- 11 May 2016

Hi John: How was the male killed and why were the eggs addled? If you live in a state in which Mute Swans are demonized falsely, we already know the answer to these two questions. State and federal ...

Swans caged in tiny enclosure -- Dan -- 10 May 2016

Hi! In the pond where I work, they import a swan pair every year. However, this year one of them disappeared, supposedly it got sick. After about a week, another (same one?) showed up, but they now ...

Re: Swans caged in tiny enclosure -- The Regal Swan -- 10 May 2016

Hi Dan: This sounds like an introduction pen. When introducing new swans, they must be penned for approximately 1 1/2-2 weeks to get them accustomed to their new habitat, the other swans, the feeding ...

Re: Swans caged in tiny enclosure -- Dan -- 11 May 2016

Thanks for the reply. Yes, that's what I figured it out to be as well after some more research. Unfortunately, their pen was nothing close to what you described. That was the real problem I had with ...

Re: Swans caged in tiny enclosure -- The Regal Swan -- 11 May 2016

Hi Dan: Glad we could help and that the swans are out on the pond. Thanks for caring for them and providing us with the update. The Regal Swan

Dead Baby Swan in Nest -- Lisa -- 10 May 2016

We had a pair of swans nesting, they had 4 eggs that hatched (not sure how many were in the nest) this past weekend... from what i can see the adult swans and 3 of the babies are swimming around with ...

Re: Dead Baby Swan in Nest -- The Regal Swan -- 10 May 2016

Hi Lisa Mother nature usually takes care of this by either the mother kicking the carcass out of the nest or a predator takes the carcass. If you are absolutely sure it is dead, remove the carcass ...

Re: Dead Baby Swan in Nest -- Lisa -- 11 May 2016

Thank you for the information... that is what we did except my husband used a fishing net to get the dead baby out of the nest so we wouldn't leave our smells on or around the nest or disturb it as ...

Re: Dead Baby Swan in Nest -- The Regal Swan -- 11 May 2016

Hi Lisa: Thank you and your husband for removing the carcass as its presence would have only invited predators and pests to the otherwise safe nesting area. On another note, if you had removed the ...

Lone male mute swan -- Xiwen -- 8 May 2016

Hi, The female swan abandoned the nest and disappear from their territory. I do not what exactly happened, but I guess she was threatened by brutal behaviour of stupid persons when she was ...

Re: Lone male mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 9 May 2016

Hi Xiwen: What you may be observing is actually the female sitting intermittently on the eggs and then searching for the male. Depending on the species and individual attributes of the swan, usually, ...

Female mute swan left the nest and eggs -- Xiwen -- 8 May 2016

There was a mute swan couple living in the canal in my neighbourhood. Last year, all their cygnets could not survive because they ate grass and could not digest. This year, the mute swan couple ...

Destroyed nest -- Mary -- 7 May 2016

Cygnets a few days old. This morning water levels rising and nest looks soaked and almost submerged. I saw the female push her cygnet out of the nest and they were swimming. Male well off in the ...

Re: Destroyed nest -- The Regal Swan -- 7 May 2016

Hi Mary: The cygnets will be just fine. The mother swan takes them out of the nest 24 hours after hatching to eat, bathe and preen. She usually will keep the cygnets in the nest for approximately 1-2 ...

Number of eggs -- Carolyn -- 6 May 2016

If there are just a few eggs compared to 7 or 8, would you think the female was younger or more mature?

Re: Number of eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 7 May 2016

Hi Carolyn: There is no way to ascertain age of a swan by the number of eggs laid or any other way unless you have the actual date of hatching of that bird. Female birds are programmed with the ...

Food for new baby swans -- Luanne -- 5 May 2016

Our Mute swans just hatched 5 babies! The couple lives on an island on a 6 acre lake in a northeast Texas estate. What should I feed the mother (or the babies) to help them grow? Thanks!!

Re: Food for new baby swans -- The Regal Swan -- 5 May 2016

Hi Luanda Place 1/2 mixture of cracked corn and 1\2 poultry layer pellets in the water near the island or in a shallow pan near the island so that the cygnets do not climb into the pan and hurt their ...

Male mute swan disappeared from the nest/lake -- cushinglj -- 5 May 2016

we have a pair of mute swans on our lake in nh. The female laid her eggs 4 weeks ago. The male has not been seen on the lake in 4 days. It is our understanding that they mate for life. The female is ...

Re: Male mute swan disappeared from the nest/lake -- The Regal Swan -- 5 May 2016

Hi Unfortunately, there are many reasons a swan could leave and most are not good. A predator could have chased him or attacked him. He could have been ill and met his demise. He could have gotten in ...

Nesting mute swan has bump on belly -- Larry -- 4 May 2016

Our mute swan laid a number of eggs in late march/early april. Has been sitting on them but when she is up she doesn't look healthy and doesn't eat. She had a large bump in her belly. Any thoughts? ...

Re: Nesting mute swan has bump on belly -- The Regal Swan -- 4 May 2016

Hi Larry Have any of the eggs hatched yet? She may have an abrasion from sitting too long. Once the cygnets are hatched, you need to collect the cygnets, place them in a separate container ( ...

Pinioned mute swan cygnets...what to do with them? -- John -- 2 May 2016

I live in North Carolina where it is illegal to keep "non-pinioned" mute swans. I have 4 new cygnets and would like to let them grow to "adulthood" before giving them away. How ...

Re: Pinioned mute swan cygnets...what to do with them? -- The Regal Swan -- 2 May 2016

Hi John: You must still pinion the cygnets and this procedure must be conducted by a licensed experiences avian/waterfowl veterinarian who must conduct the procedure at 1-3 weeks of age. At this age, ...

One of a pair of our swans was killed, with cygnets -- Elizabeth -- 2 May 2016

Good Morning, One of a pair of swans we have on our lake was killed last night, leaving the other (we believe the male) and five cygnets. Can you help? Will the male be able to care for the babies? ...

Re: One of a pair of our swans was killed, with cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 2 May 2016

Hi Elizabeth: Usually, the cygnets are old enough to feed themselves after 24 hours of hatching. The only reason that the parents are around is for protection. So, yes, the male will protect the ...

Nesting swan killed. What to do with the eggs? -- Chris -- 2 May 2016

Hi, We have a pair of swans nesting at the edge of our lake. Last night we found mom dead with a broken neck on the shore and 3 eggs in the nest, one broken. What could have killed her? Will the eggs ...

Re: Nesting swan killed. What to do with the eggs? -- The Regal Swan -- 2 May 2016

Hi Chris: There are several possibilities as to what happened to the mom. A predator would be a likely candidate, but the neck would have been eaten such as the case of a coyote, fox, etc. Another ...

Abandoned swan egg on our patio -- Judy -- 2 May 2016

Swan laid egg on our patio and not sitting on it. Her partner has not been seen for 4 days now.

Re: Abandoned swan egg on our patio -- The Regal Swan -- 2 May 2016

Hi Judy: There is a possibility that both swans are very young swans and have no idea what they are doing and the egg is infertile. Sometimes, birds will drop eggs because they need to and not ...

Treatment for cygnet's broken leg -- Himakshi -- 1 May 2016

hello, I have a 1 and half month old baby swan. It fell down from bed and has broken its leg. How do i cure its leg, what will be its treatment?

Re: Treatment for cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 2 May 2016

Hi Himakshi You need to get the cygnet to a licensed veterinarian immediately. Any delay and the leg may not be able to be repaired. In waterfowl, this is an extremely detrimental injury. Left ...

Advice on when to stop waiting... -- Dan -- 1 May 2016

And I guess, what to do next. We're in Virginia and have been documenting a nest for the past 2 months. Is there any time point when we should intervene and what could we do? Nest has 7 eggs, nest ...

Re: Advice on when to stop waiting... -- The Regal Swan -- 1 May 2016

Hi Dan: Keep waiting. Incubation is usually between 35-40 days and incubation begins when the last egg is laid, not the first. The mother swan knows exactly what she is doing and as long as she is ...

Re: Advice on when to stop waiting... -- Dan -- 1 May 2016

Thanks for the reply. I was counting 35 from the first egg and the suspense is killing me. If anyone wants to follow along, the day is coming soon and we have a motion cam setup right next to the ...

Where have they gone? -- Maria -- 29 April 2016

Hi, 2 years ago mum and dad had 3 babies, 2 of which visit most mornings whilst I feed my horse. They are very tame and purr at me and stand next to me while I tend to the horses. Since wed 20th ...

Re: Where have they gone? -- The Regal Swan -- 29 April 2016

Hi Maria This is mating season and the parents have chased the juveniles swans from the area to find their own mates and habitat. At 2 years of age, the juveniles may very well be sitting on their ...

Is floating fish food good for swans? -- Donna -- 28 April 2016

Would you know if it is OK to feed our lake swans floating fish food? Our feed store in Orlando Florida said that this food is perfectly OK for our Swans. He said that it is a little less then 30% ...

Re: Is floating fish food good for swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 April 2016

Hi Donna No, fish food is not an adequate food source for the swans. Swans are not dabbling birds as much as they are grazers and divers. Therefore, the food should be submerged in the water. Use a ...

Can a male swan be fertile at 10 months of age? -- Jamie -- 27 April 2016

Hello, We had our first cygnets born June 5th, 2015 to a pair of swans we have had for 6 yrs.. Unfortunately we lost the male swan of the pair in February of this year. The mother swan has selected ...

Re: Can a male swan be fertile at 10 months of age? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 April 2016

Hi Jamie: Most research states that swans do not mate and produce eggs until they are approximately 3 years of age. However, we have witnessed on many occasions one-2 year old swans mating, nesting ...

Nesting -- Sarah -- 27 April 2016

Hi from the UK - excellent website! There are one pair of swans on a man-made lake near us. They drive their cygnets away each year, but one female (?) stayed behind one year, possibly the runt. They ...

Re: Nesting -- The Regal Swan -- 27 April 2016

Hi Sarah: Thanks for the kind words about the website. We are glad we can be of assistance. It is possible that the male could have two mates as this has been seen in the U.K. However, more than ...

Re: Nesting -- Sarah -- 1 May 2016

Thank you very much for your interesting reply. We'll keep an eye on the situation! We think it might be that the daughter is nesting as the other two swans are larger than her and appear to be ...

Re: Nesting -- The Regal Swan -- 1 May 2016

Hi Sarah: Thanks for your kind words. Glad we could be of assistance. Thanks for sharing our site. The Regal Swan

Strange swan behaviour: swans attacking smaller swan -- Job -- 26 April 2016

Can you advise re some swans odd behaviour towards 1 swan at our public lake? They keep chasing & being aggressive to this swan. They are much bigger than it. I've noticed they're focusing on ...

Re: Strange swan behaviour: swans attacking smaller swan -- The Regal Swan -- 26 April 2016

Hi Job: This is probably parent swans telling junior he needs to leave the nesting area to find a mate and habitat for his own. If this is not their offspring, then it is another swan, probably ...

Re: Strange swan behaviour: swans attacking smaller swan -- Job -- 27 April 2016

Thanks for that! Strange - I haven't seen it with other swans, in other locations!

Swan egg question: Mother rolled 2 eggs out -- Linda -- 25 April 2016

I have a pair of black neck swans that have laid 5 eggs. It is getting close to about 40 days since she started incubating She already rolled one egg out that was bad and now she has just rolled one ...

Re: Swan egg question: Mother rolled 2 eggs out -- The Regal Swan -- 25 April 2016

Hi Linda: Mother swan knows best. If she has rolled the eggs out, then they are bad. Bad eggs will rot in the nest and that is a messy explosion she cannot afford. Her attention is totally on the ...

How long do cygnets need to stay with mother, and when to clip wings -- Cindy -- 25 April 2016

We have two white swans in our pound. They have just had all 7 eggs to hatch. How long do they need to stay with the mother? When do we need to have the wings clipped on the babies?

Re: How long do cygnets need to stay with mother, and when to clip wings -- The Regal Swan -- 25 April 2016

Hi Cindy: The cygnets (baby swans) need to stay with their mom for at least 6 months. A licensed veterinarian (preferably waterfowl/avian veterinarian---Univ. of Knoxville has this specialty in their ...

Swan Injured -- Lynne -- 25 April 2016

Hi, We live in NJ on a small lake and the one male swan we care for showed up acting strangely on Friday. He is listing in the water to the left and not using his right leg at all. It is up under his ...

Re: Swan Injured -- The Regal Swan -- 25 April 2016

Hi Lynne Are you sure he does not have fishing line entangled around the leg or if he might have been shot? In New Jersey, the NJDNR is trying to kill as many Mute Swans as possible under the guise ...

Re: Swan Injured -- Lynne -- 26 April 2016

Good Morning, Thank you for the response. My first thought is that he might have been shot but I do not see any wound or blood. I also did not seen any fishing line wrapped around the leg. I called ...

Blindness -- Norece -- 24 April 2016

We have a pair of 5 month old black swans. The female's left eye didn't develop properly. She is totally blind in that eye. I was wondering if this would be a hereditary problem for any offspring. ...

Re: Blindness -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2016

Hi Norece: This could have been a genetic, nutrition or injury problem while the cygnet was in the egg or shortly after hatching. Have you had her eye looked at by a veterinarian to ensure that it is ...

Trumpeter swan bonded with pair of Canadian Geese? -- Kerri -- 24 April 2016

We live next to a land conservancy with a huge pond in Northeast Ohio and always enjoy watching the wildlife there. Over the past week we have been delighted with daily sightings of a lone Trumpeter ...

Re: Trumpeter swan bonded with pair of Canadian Geese? -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2016

Hi Kerri: This is pretty normal behavior especially since the swan and the geese are probably young offspring from this past year that the parent's have chased from the nesting habitat to find a ...

Baby swan care -- Sara -- 24 April 2016

Hi I have 2 fertilized swan eggs for 21 days already. The babies are alive and moving inside the shell when I candle them. They were found in a park where our family goes fishing but the parents ...

Re: Baby swan care -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2016

Hi Sara: Once they hatch, they are going to imprint on you as their mother. The best thing to do is get these eggs to a wildlife rehabilitation center or a facility such as a petting farm where they ...

Feed formula question -- Sara -- 25 April 2016

Thank you for your reply to my perious post the information was very helpful I started doing some research on homemade poultry feed here's the formula 500g wheat 500g barley 500g lentils 500g cracked ...

Re: Feed formula question -- The Regal Swan -- 25 April 2016

Hi Sara: Forget these home preparations as they either offer not enough nutritional resources for the swans or they produce too much protein which can cause a condition in the young swans' wings ...

Re: Mom Killed - 6 Eggs Left -- Gary -- 20 April 2016

Thank you for your quick advice. The 6 eggs are now gone. The male is doing fine. From Last Years six, We Gave Two To A Nearby City Park. One Of The Two Has Stopped Eating And Today Is At The Vet's. ...

Re: Mom Killed - 6 Eggs Left -- The Regal Swan -- 20 April 2016

Hi Gary: Have the vet check for lead poisoning or other poisoning such as insecticides, fertilizers. etc. When a swan or any other bird stops eating and pooping, this is an immediate warning sign ...

Pair of trumpeter swans chase 6 horses around the pasture, freaking out the horses -- Richard -- 19 April 2016

i have a pair of 4 year old trumpets. they are chasing me when i walk away, but swim around me when i am in the boat. the real problem is they are chasing my horses. i put 6 horses in the field by ...

Re: Pair of trumpeter swans chase 6 horses around the pasture, freaking out the horses -- The Regal Swan -- 20 April 2016

Hi Richard: This is normal behavior at this time of the year for all swans that have become of age for mating/nesting. Your young swans are experiencing a rise in testosterone levels and they do not ...

Swan males appear to be "breeding" -- Karen -- 19 April 2016

I have two year old male swans that were biologically tested and identified at Oklahoma State University. They have created a nest and appear to be "breeding". My question is: What do male ...

Re: Swan males appear to be "breeding" -- The Regal Swan -- 19 April 2016

Hi Karen: In the swan world, the males build the nests. Male swans will mate with a male or female swan (as long as the males are very young and introduced together as a young pair. If males are ...

Swan wandered away -- Carolyn -- 19 April 2016

We, too, last summer had one of two swans wander away. We found it 1 1/2 days later nearly 2 miles away. Since it was tired, hungry, and thirsty, we along with others were able to easly caputure the ...

Mail order bride: Male visits the new female but does not allow her on his pond -- Jen -- 19 April 2016

We had an old mirror on our porch we were getting rid of and our only male swan kept going up to the mirror and pecking at it and stayed there for what appeared to be a long time since there was poop ...

Re: Mail order bride: Male visits the new female but does not allow her on his pond -- The Regal Swan -- 19 April 2016

Hi Jen: Looking in a mirror and seeing another bird may cause the bird to think there is a competing male or a companion female. In any case, this does not necessarily mean that the swan is lonely. ...

Male swan leaves female, walks 1/2 mile away -- Cindy -- 18 April 2016

i have a pair of one year old mute swans on a 1 acre pond. Their wings are pinned. The male keeps leaving. He walked about 1/2 mile away today. A few weeks ago he went the other direction about a 1/4 ...

Re: Male swan leaves female, walks 1/2 mile away -- The Regal Swan -- 19 April 2016

Hi Cindy: Are you absolutely sure you have a male and a female? If they have not been DNA sequenced, and whomever you received them from just probed, what you think you have may not be reality. ...

Tundra swan -- T Lamb -- 18 April 2016

We have a tundra swan that has stayed until today 4/16. left for about an hour and came back. she has a friend resident swan here. If she left could she find her way to Alaska ???

Re: Tundra swan -- The Regal Swan -- 18 April 2016

Hi T: If the swan is not a captive bred swan and learned the migratory path from the parents, it will find its way to and from the migratory path. Just because it is a Tundra Swan does not mean that ...

Mom Killed - 6 Eggs Left -- Gary -- 18 April 2016

Hello I Live In Weldon Spring, MO. Last year we had A mated Pair That Produced 6 cygnets. 3 Were White and 3 Were Gray. Of The Six Three Were Killed By Mom And Dad Because Of Them Getting Sick. The ...

Re: Mom Killed - 6 Eggs Left -- The Regal Swan -- 18 April 2016

Hi Gary: The male will not grieve for a long period of time. Nature does not allow this. He may grieve for a day or two, but then he will go about his life. As far as the eggs, it does not sound as ...

Swan stands on one leg -- Alane -- 17 April 2016

Our 18 yr. old swan was found with a possible broken leg. He stands on one leg and doesn't seems to be in pain. Don't know what to do. Have him safely pinned up. Help!

Re: Swan stands on one leg -- The Regal Swan -- 18 April 2016

Hi Alane: Have you had an avian veterinarian exam him? The University Tennessee at Knoxville has a veterinary college, so you might check with them to find an avian/waterfowl vet in your area. ...

Re: Swan stands on one leg -- Alane -- 19 April 2016

Thank you for your response. I have contacted the school. They think surgery maybe if broken, but we agree with age not possible. We penned him up for several days, but decided on Saturday to put him ...

Re: Swan stands on one leg -- The Regal Swan -- 19 April 2016

Hi Alane: The idea of a shallow area is good, but there are several issues that need to be addressed. 1. Does the shallow end ever dry out during periods of drought? 2. Does the shallow end have a ...

Would the mute swan cob leave the dam -- Liebrecht -- 17 April 2016

I have a 4 year old mute swan pair on a 3/4 acre dam. Only the Pen has been pinioned. The Cob yesterday took off but luckly only made a circle and came back. Do i have to cut his fleight feathers ...

Re: Would the mute swan cob leave the dam -- The Regal Swan -- 18 April 2016

Hi Liebrecht: Yes, you need to trim his feathers every 3 months so that he cannot fly. Even though he has a mate and should return, he could get lost, find a predator, run into something or become ...

Swans after birth of babies: Female and cygnets are not there, male still nearby -- Karen -- 17 April 2016

I have been observing a swan nest. 2 weeks ago I was there and they were still sitting on the eggs. I went by yesterday and the nest was empty except for a few crows muddling around. The adult male ...

Re: Swans after birth of babies: Female and cygnets are not there, male still nearby -- The Regal Swan -- 18 April 2016

Hi Karen: Approximately a week after hatching, the mother will move the cygnets away from the nest. However, the mother and cygnets should still be in the immediate area (less than a mile) unless she ...

Cob absent from the nest for a few days -- Mr G -- 16 April 2016

Hello, the nesting pair on our local pond, that have breed successfully before, have laid a clutch and the Penn has been sitting for several days, however the Cob has been absent for a few days and ...

Re: Cob absent from the nest for a few days -- The Regal Swan -- 16 April 2016

Hi Mr. G: This is not normal behavior as the male will stay with the pen and the nest to protect them. However, should something have occurred to the male, this would be the reason for his not ...

Swan arrived on our lake over a week ago -- Brian -- 15 April 2016

We have a swan that arrived on our lake a little over a week ago. We have seen it hanging around with some of the geese there. Our lake is a approx 7 acres, shallow, very calm water and full of Lilly ...

Re: Swan arrived on our lake over a week ago -- The Regal Swan -- 16 April 2016

Hi Brian: The swan you describe may be a Trumpeter, but more than likely, it is a juvenile Mute Swan which has not gotten its adult coloration (i.e., full white feathers and reddish/orange bill). In ...

Re: Swan arrived on our lake over a week ago -- Brian -- 17 April 2016

Hey thanks for the reply. He/she has been here almost 2 weeks now, and is about 1.5 times the size of a goose. He is very active on the lake, have yet to see him on the land. So how does it find a ...

Re: Swan arrived on our lake over a week ago -- The Regal Swan -- 18 April 2016

Hi Brian: If there are no other swan families in the area, it may be impossible that the swan finds a mate. However, if there are some in the area, he/she will find them as this occurs throughout the ...

Male mute swan left mate -- Brenda -- 14 April 2016

We have a huge pond behind our house and for the last 2 months have had a male and female white (mute) swan. She has had her nest built for quite some time and we have witnessed them mating but for ...

Re: Male mute swan left mate -- The Regal Swan -- 16 April 2016

Hi Brenda: This is not normal behavior. Hopefully, he was not scared off by a predator or worse, attacked by a predator. If this is not the case, then there is a possibility that the male will ...

One of two swans died -- Jody -- 14 April 2016

We had mother/daughter swans. Daughter just died. Our association doesn't know what to do with remaining swan. Is she ok alone? Do we bring another swan in? We have a friend with 2 swans, he thinks a ...

Re: One of two swans died -- The Regal Swan -- 14 April 2016

Hi Jody: She will do just fine on her own. Swans may or may not take another mate/swan pal if the first one dies. She certainly will not be accepted by the male/female pair at your friends as they ...

Formerly abusive cygnet now watches the Pen -- Henry -- 13 April 2016

Hello again, I wrote to you on the 31st March regarding an abusive Cygnet. He is still here but has settled down and the Cob and Pen have built up the nest and she is started laying now. Cygnet is ...

Re: Formerly abusive cygnet now watches the Pen -- The Regal Swan -- 13 April 2016

Hi Henry: That is certainly a very young cygnet. This might be the reason that it was acting out because it wasn't old enough to leave, but the parents wanted it to leave so they could start nesting. ...

Swan behavior: Swans lay close to the road/on the road -- Sharon -- 13 April 2016

There are two swans that come back every year to a nearby large pond. The pond has land on three sides and the fourth side borders a well traveled road with a speed limit of 50 mph. When they are not ...

Re: Swan behavior: Swans lay close to the road/on the road -- The Regal Swan -- 13 April 2016

Hi Sharon: There are several possibilities as to why the swans are standing near or on the road. Has it been raining or extremely cold? The road may look like a small stream to the swans if the ...

Swan eggs are gone from nest. -- Bonnie -- 12 April 2016

This is the first time that our Mute Swans have mated and there were 4 eggs. During the egg laying process we had temperatures well below our normal. Around the time of the 4th egg being laid, the ...

Re: Swan eggs are gone from nest. -- The Regal Swan -- 12 April 2016

Hi Bonnie: Thank you for your kind words. We are glad that the website is of benefit to you. There could be several explanations for the loss of the eggs. The swans do not necessarily need to feel ...

Re: Swan eggs are gone from nest -- Bonnie -- 12 April 2016

Thank you for the quick reply. The area where they built the nest is actually a large liner pond that we built when we had Koi. We no longer have koi but there are a few goldfish in this pond. It's ...

Re: Swan eggs are gone from nest -- The Regal Swan -- 13 April 2016

Hi Bonnie: You are very welcome. We just call these sounds vocalizations because they are a combination of many sounds such as bleeps, snorts, etc. Then, of course the hissing is a sound all by ...

Solo swan is chasing the new swan -- Jan -- 8 April 2016

We had 2 swans that always swam together and another that tagged along. Then the next year there were only 2 so we figured the 3rd one was their baby and found a mate...wishful thinking I suppose. ...

Re: Solo swan is chasing the new swan -- The Regal Swan -- 9 April 2016

Hi Jan: The old swan is a male and does not want a new swan (male) coming in and taking over its habitat. So, this is normal behavior and the new swan is probably a young male that was recently ...

Mute swan family order -- Lisa -- 7 April 2016

The male died four days ago. There is his mate and two female and one male offspring. They are 4 years old now. None are able to fly off our small lake because they are hemmed in by tall buildings ...

Re: Mute swan family order -- The Regal Swan -- 9 April 2016

Hi Lisa: Are you absolutely sure that you have 3 females and a male? Usually, females will not chase a male, and normally a male will not be too defensive towards any female. He may nip and chase, ...

Swan nesting: the eggs keep being pushed out of the nest -- Georgia -- 6 April 2016

We have a pair of swans, 3 yrs old, on a small lake within a golf course. Our yard backs up to the water. They have built their nest in our flower bed near the water and near the house. On ...

Re: Swan nesting: the eggs keep being pushed out of the nest -- The Regal Swan -- 6 April 2016

Hi Georgia: There are a couple of possibilities in this situation. 1. A predator is carrying the eggs from the nest. However, if you have not seen any disturbance in the eggs (cracked, etc.) this ...

Re: Swan nesting: the eggs keep being pushed out of the nest -- Georgia -- 7 April 2016

Thank you for your reply. The male swan built the nest, and is doing most of the setting and guarding the nest.

Re: Swan nesting: the eggs keep being pushed out of the nest -- The Regal Swan -- 7 April 2016

Hi Georgia: You're very welcome. The info is good to know. Nature causes a light switch to go on and eventually, wildlife get the picture of how things are done. Hopefully, they will be successful ...

Lone swan remains after the others left -- Valerie -- 6 April 2016

The swans have been in the 100 Mile House March for the last 3 weeks, they left either last night or early this morning, but they left one lone swan. My question is will it be alright on its own? It ...

Re: Lone swan remains after the others left -- The Regal Swan -- 6 April 2016

Hi Valerie: The swan may have something wrong with it so that it cannot fly or is extremely tired from the long migration. If it can, it will rest and then gets its strength to move on. As long as ...

Re: Lone swan remains after the others left -- Valerie -- 8 April 2016

Thank you for your reply, the swan came with other swans and is looking way better today (was not even putting its bum up when eating but is now) also the lone swan is on a water reserve (Ducks ...

Re: Lone swan remains after the others left -- The Regal Swan -- 9 April 2016

Hi Valerie: You are very welcome. If the swan still has some grey, then he is under a year old. So, he may have arrived with his parents or the other swans and was too tired to travel on. Hopefully, ...

Swans in field without water, eating grass -- Rachel -- 5 April 2016

Hi. I live in north east Scotland. There has been a large flock of swans in a local field for the last couple of weeks. Around 35 were counted today, including some that are clearly last years ...

Re: Swans in field without water, eating grass -- The Regal Swan -- 6 April 2016

Hi Rachel: Swans, geese and some other waterfowl are grazing animals. The birds will eat grasses as well as left-over grains or other such crops that farmers have picked over. During the winter ...

Replacing my swan with male or female? -- Michael -- 5 April 2016

Hi.. Thank you so much for your reply on replacing my swan. I understand your answer completely. If we did try to replace him for his mate, would a female be a better choice or easier to buddy up if ...

Re: Replacing my swan with male or female? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 April 2016

Hi Michael: You are very welcome and thank you for the kind words. We love being able to provide this service to swan keepers, veterinarians and other interested parties. However, this website could ...

Do swans leave and return at different times? -- Pam -- 5 April 2016

February through Mid March we had a couple. They finally left together mid March. One came back a week later. This morning two weeks after the first one returned, several swans did a fly by. When ...

Re: Do swans leave and return at different times? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 April 2016

Hi Pam: Usually, family members stay together. However, if a mate should get separated and take off with a group, it knows through its migratory memory where its breeding/nesting ground/habitat is ...

Weight and dimentions of mute swan eggs -- Ruchelle -- 4 April 2016

Can you tell me how much a mute swan egg should weigh and/or its dimensions? I have ducks and swans and am not sure which is laying. Thanks

Re: Weight and dimentions of mute swan eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 4 April 2016

Hi Ruchelle: Swan eggs are approximately 10.2 cm (4 inches) in length, 7.6 cm (3 inches) in diameter and weigh approximately 9 ounces. The eggs are white with a greenish gray tint. As swan eggs age, ...

Swan nesting in blizzard, covered in snow -- Lori -- 2 April 2016

the pair of swans on our neighborhood lake are new at nesting. The mom swan just laid eggs a few days ago. We are now having snow storm and high winds. Will the mom stay on the nest? She is getting ...

Re: Swan nesting in blizzard, covered in snow -- The Regal Swan -- 3 April 2016

Hi Lori: Swans are build for tough cold weather. Many species nest on the tundra so if this is a day storm (winds dissipate somewhat even though temperatures may be cold), the swan will use her down ...

Widowed swan befriended by a goose? -- Anne -- 2 April 2016

I have noticed over the past months, a swan that had lost its mate. I had watched this pair for about 2 years and also, when they had raised their kids. They seemed like very, good parents. Recently, ...

Re: Widowed swan befriended by a goose? -- The Regal Swan -- 3 April 2016

Hi Anne: Swans may or may not re-pair after losing their mate, especially if they were paired for a great length of time. However, their hormone levels will still rise during the mating/nesting ...

Bring new swan for old swan? -- Michael -- 2 April 2016

Hi, I have had a pair of swans for about 15 years the male recently pasted away. I want to replace him with another swan to keep the girl company. Is this a good idea and if so where would I be able ...

Re: Bring new swan for old swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 3 April 2016

Hi Michael There are no guarantees that the female will take another male after losing her mate. Even if she does, there are several issues to take into account: 1. You will probably never find ...

Lonely Canadian goose -- Catrin -- 1 April 2016

Hi, we have a Canadian goose in the field by our house. He has two angel wings and his family have flown away. There is a pond and plenty of grass and he seems happy enough. A local farm attraction ...

Re: Lonely Canadian goose -- The Regal Swan -- 1 April 2016

Hi Catrin: If the goose had normal wings and was able to fly from predators, we would suggest to leave him in his pond. However, because he cannot fly to escape predators, he is susceptible to ...

Mute swans and white geese? -- Ken -- 1 April 2016

I have a pair of mute swans was wondering if I introduced some white geese into their pond would they all get along. Also they had layed eggs 5 and 4 years ago but have not layed since; is there ...

Re: Mute swans and white geese? -- The Regal Swan -- 1 April 2016

Hi Ken: Introducing geese may not be a good idea as they may or may not get along. If you are trying to get the swans to produce eggs, any disturbance/alteration to the habitat may disrupt this plan. ...

Mute Swan Cygnet being aggressive -- Henry -- 31 March 2016

Only one Cygnet survived last years brood, normally the parents would be chasing it off by now, I noticed it has been aggressive to its mother the Pen over the last few days. There have been no sign ...

Re: Mute Swan Cygnet being aggressive -- The Regal Swan -- 31 March 2016

Hi Henry: Give it a few weeks, if not days, and the parents will intervene and chase junior out of the habitat so they can start another brood. The "aggressiveness" may not actually be such, but ...

Re: Mute Swan Cygnet being aggressive -- Henry -- 1 April 2016

Thanks, the swans only arrived here in April 2014, was wondering what was going on. Cheers.

Re: Mute Swan Cygnet being aggressive -- The Regal Swan -- 1 April 2016

Hi Henry You are very welcome. Let us know if you have future questions or concerns. The Regal Swan

Swans feeding fish? -- Kay -- 30 March 2016

I see pictures on Facebook and other social media that depicts swans feed in fish. Is this true, or are they just taking in water to wash down the grain they are eating. Is the grain falling into the ...

Re: Swans feeding fish? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 March 2016

Hi Kay: The swan is actually dipping the food in the water which must occur so that the swan does not choke on the food. Swans and many other waterfowl must have water to eat for this reason. So, by ...

Swan cannot breath properly -- Gigi -- 29 March 2016

Hello, I've been watching over a couple of swans in a pond close to my house for about 4 summers. Recently, I've noticed the male does not close his beak and it seems that he has has difficulty ...

Re: Swan cannot breath properly -- The Regal Swan -- 30 March 2016

Hi Gigi: There may be several reasons for this behavior. The swan may be hot or stressed. Under these situations, the swan may actually look as they are panting. If the swan has food or other ...

Why cygnets come back although their daddy keeps chasing them away -- Sammye -- 29 March 2016

Do you know why cygnets would keep coming back to their place, Story Lake Resort, Hudson, IN when the daddy keeps chasing them away? Just find it curious because they keep coming back when the daddy ...

Re: Why cygnets come back although their daddy keeps chasing them away -- The Regal Swan -- 30 March 2016

Hi Sammye: This is behavior that occurs naturally and will eventually rectify itself with the cygnets leaving the area or at least the immediate area of the parent swans' nesting habitat. Once the ...

Swan not moving -- J -- 29 March 2016

There is a swan near a neighborhood pond that has not moved more than a few feet in 3 days. I thought it might be nesting or injured so approached with food and water. It does not appear to be ...

Re: Swan not moving -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2016

Hi J: You might want to discretely contact a wildlife rehabilitation facility to see if they might come out and check the swan out for any injury, entanglement or illness. We say discretely, because ...

Nest washed away -- Cath -- 29 March 2016

Will swans rebuild nest if it is washed away in flooded river? And will they lay more eggs if the eggs are lost?

Re: Nest washed away -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2016

Hi Cath: It depends on how far along the nesting was occurring before the nest/eggs were washed away. If it occurred immediately after the laying of the eggs, then there is a chance that the swan may ...

Following a human around, not aggressive -- Sherri -- 29 March 2016

I do not know anything about the psyche of a swan, but Ralph's behavior is very strange this year after his winter in captivity. He kind of has a "thing" about Richard. He waits at our back ...

Re: Following a human around, not aggressive -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2016

Hi Sherri: First, we need to know if something happened to his mate Gladys? If so, this would explain why he is hanging around your house. If your husband has been acting kindly to the swan, feeding ...

Mute swan now stays back, won't come for feeding -- Steve -- 27 March 2016

Hi, I'm hoping you can set my mind at ease. I've been feeding two swans at my local small pond for a number of years now, there is only two as its a small pond. The older one would come out of the ...

Re: Mute swan now stays back, won -- The Regal Swan -- 28 March 2016

Hi Steve: This is mating/nesting season. Hormone levels as well as wariness of protecting nests and young can alter normal daily behavior. More than likely, the swan has one of these issues occurring ...

Mute swan not laying eggs -- Paul -- 25 March 2016

I have had a pair of mute swans for 4 years.After the first year she laid 7 eggs but would not sit on them. She laid the eggs on an island in my pond. Since then no eggs. Why?

Re: Mute swan not laying eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 28 March 2016

Hi Paul: There is a possibility that your pair of swans are both females which would mean they would go about the usual nesting/egg laying process, but obviously the eggs are not fertile. If you ...

Female swan missing after sitting on nest for a week -- Beth -- 24 March 2016

Hi, I am totally in a panic. I have 2 swans Giselle and Goose. They mated built a nest, and she has been sitting on her 6 eggs for about a week-10 days. She is quite tame and will leave the nest for ...

Re: Female swan missing after sitting on nest for a week -- The Regal Swan -- 24 March 2016

Hi Beth This is certainly not normal behavior. It sounds as if she was scared by something, possibly a predator. Can she fly? If she is pinioned, unable to fly, she may have fled, but may have been ...

Re: Female swan missing after sitting on nest for a week -- Beth -- 31 March 2016

hi it is Beth again. You were sadly correct. My beautiful Giselle was found by neighbors. She was eaten by coyotes. I know this because Sully the male sat the nest after her disappearance. The night ...

Re: Female swan missing after sitting on nest for a week -- The Regal Swan -- 1 April 2016

Hi Beth We are so sorry for your loss. DO NOT try to incubate these eggs. Unless you know what you are doing, (in many cases even professional swan breeders are not successful), bringing the eggs to ...

Control of swan reproduction rate -- Shall remain nameless -- 23 March 2016

I volunteer at a local park with a small lake, which, in my opinion is overpopulated with mute swans. Each year they reproduce with a similar result of about less than 10% survival rate. I am ...

Re: Control of swan reproduction rate -- The Regal Swan -- 23 March 2016

Hi: The only methods to stop reproduction is to separate the sexes, (which is not going to work in an area such as public park/body of water) or remove/addle the eggs. When removing the eggs or ...

Swan does not sit on her eggs -- Teresa -- 22 March 2016

Swan does not sit on her eggs

Re: Swan does not sit on her eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 22 March 2016

Hi Teresa: There may be several reasons for the swan not sitting on the eggs. If she has not completely finished laying eggs, she will intermittently sit and leave the nest. This is why when humans ...

Male Swan Missing -- Nicholas -- 22 March 2016

A couple of days ago the male and female were together, the next thing the female was by herself outside my flat for 3 hours (something she hasnt done since i moved in 3 months ago) the male never ...

Re: Male Swan Missing -- The Regal Swan -- 22 March 2016

Hi Nicholas: There are several reasons you may not be seeing the male swan. Sometimes, not always, but sometimes, male swans will take a break from the immediate area while the female is nesting. Are ...

Canadian Goose with Deformed Foot -- Karen -- 20 March 2016

We have a summer home on the lake. For the past 3 years I've noticed a Canadian Goose whose webbed foot is missing or severely deformed on one leg. Sometimes the leg seems to bother him when he's ...

Re: Canadian Goose with Deformed Foot -- The Regal Swan -- 21 March 2016

Hi Karen: The goose probably has some type of arthritic condition if it has sustained an injury to the foot/leg from years ago. As long as the goose can enter and exit the water, fly, feed, bathe and ...

Looking to purchase a trumpeter swan -- Freemat -- 19 March 2016

I am looking to purchase a male adult trumpeter swan. Do you know of anyone I can contact in order to locate a male?

Re: Looking to purchase a trumpeter swan -- The Regal Swan -- 19 March 2016

Hi Freemat: Are you looking to replace a mate? If so, is the remaining swan a male or female? If it is a male, it usually will not accept another mate and it will definitely NOT accept another male. ...

Looking for female mate for male mute swan -- Ron -- 18 March 2016

Dear Expert, Our next door neighbor had a pair of mute swans and the female died last winter due to illness. The male is alone now and my wife would like to find him a mate. How does one go about ...

Re: Looking for female mate for male mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 18 March 2016

Hi Ron: This is going to be an arduous endeavor and one that may require you to have a breeder's license. Many states, New Hampshire included are falsely labeling Mute Swans as an invasive species ...

Can a swan live without water -- Nicole -- 17 March 2016

can a swan live without water and if so how long? I need this answer for a project that due this Tuesday plz respond quickly appreciate it

Re: Can a swan live without water -- The Regal Swan -- 18 March 2016

Hi Nichols Swans must have water for eating (swans can choke if they do not have water while eating), drinking (or swans can become dehydrated ), bathing and preening (to keep their feathers ...

Lonely swan -- Faith -- 17 March 2016

I visit my parents in SC frequently and years ago a pair of swans appeared......brought in by the retirement "village" they live in presumably. They had a cygnet many years ago of which ...

Re: Lonely swan -- The Regal Swan -- 18 March 2016

Hi Faith: If the swan is healthy, there is nothing wrong with him/her being left alone. In fact, most swans if they have lost a mate or never had a mate may not accept another swan in the habitat. ...

Mating on land or in water? -- Diane -- 17 March 2016

Do swans mate on land or in water?

Re: Mating on land or in water? -- The Regal Swan -- 17 March 2016

Hi Diana Mating can occur in the water and on land. Mating usually occurs mostly in water. However, this depends on the opportunity, presence of water and individual attributes. We have seen mating ...

Swan aggression -- Alaina -- 17 March 2016

There are 2 female swans in a small pond at our development entrance. One swan is pecking at the other one to the point of feathers being gone. What does this mean?

Re: Swan aggression -- The Regal Swan -- 17 March 2016

Hi Alaina: This is the time for mating/nesting. Female swans will mate and produce eggs (non-fertile obviously) and sit on a nest. The swans' hormone levels are high and out of control. Once the ...

What swans do -- Tyree -- 15 March 2016

What can a swan do when they are active?

Re: What swans do -- The Regal Swan -- 15 March 2016

Hi Tyree: Good question! Thanks for writing. When swans are not sleeping, they are constantly moving, eating, bathing and preening (cleaning and straightening their feathers). Swans also swim or ...

How to Sex Black Aussie Cygnets -- Bobby -- 14 March 2016

Is there an easy way to sex black Australian cygnets? Thanks in advance

Re: How to Sex Black Aussie Cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 14 March 2016

Hi Bobby: There is no guarantee of sexing the cygnets unless it is through DNA sequencing. You will need to contact a licensed avian/bird veterinarian that can take a feather sample with DNA material ...

Swan tapping on door at night -- Holly -- 14 March 2016

We have a swan that keeps tapping and scratching on our window/door all night long. How do I get it to stop?

Re: Swan tapping on door at night -- The Regal Swan -- 14 March 2016

Hi Holly: It is mating/nesting season. Swans and other birds/animals are having increased hormone levels. They are looking for mates. The swan is seeing his/her reflection in the window and think ...

Re: Swan tapping on door at night -- Ginger -- 17 March 2016

Dear Swan Specialist, I read your response to Holly and I have a question, please. Is Swan mating season universal? We are in Texas and suffering from the same invasion of a swan walking up from the ...

Re: Swan tapping on door at night -- The Regal Swan -- 17 March 2016

Hi Ginger: If the swan has white feathers, then yes, the swans only mate/nest once a year and this is the time throughout North America. So, your Texas swan is feeling the increase in hormones due to ...

Will 2 male swans build a nest? -- Lisa -- 13 March 2016

We have (what we were told by the actual owners) 2 male swans that they purchased. They have been clipped, but walk across a very busy road to leave their normal pond to come to ours in the fall. ...

Re: Will 2 male swans build a nest? -- The Regal Swan -- 13 March 2016

Hi Lisa: Yes, male swans will mate and nest without producing eggs. Two female swans will mate and nest, producing non-fertile swans. The near drowning behavior is the larger male trying to mate with ...

How deep is too deep for swans to feed? -- Adam -- 13 March 2016

Hello, My question is about water depth and swans feeding on the bottom. What depth of water would you say is deep enough to be sure that swans cannot feed from the lake bed? Reason for my question ...

Re: How deep is too deep for swans to feed? -- The Regal Swan -- 13 March 2016

Hi Adam: A swan can feed for approximately 6-7 feet in depth. So, if you fish in an area deeper than this, it should be adequate. However, this also depends on the height of the aquatic vegetation in ...

Swan ready to die -- mo. -- 13 March 2016

Do swans go into isolation when it is time for them to die?

Re: Swan ready to die -- The Regal Swan -- 13 March 2016

Hi Yes, sometimes they will go off by themselves to die. But, there are other causes for this behavior other than something wrong with the swan. It is now the beginning of nesting season. The parent ...

Can swan cygnets get rheumatism? -- Teresa -- 12 March 2016

We have 5 swans suddenly turn up on our village pond they came one day and have decided to stay. But unfortunatley one has gone off its legs and could hardly walk I was told the rspca had been called ...

Re: Can swan cygnets get rheumatism? -- The Regal Swan -- 12 March 2016

Hi Teresa We know for a fact, through x-rays and necropsies, that swans can get arthritis due to injury and/or old age. If the swan could not use his legs and walk, enter or exit water, it was going ...

Young mute swan attacked by adult swans -- Jeannine -- 9 March 2016

Recently there has been a swan, I want to say roughly 6 months of age, due to pale beak and dark feathers still present. Today two other swans approached the swan. Both were adult. The bigger of the ...

Re: Young mute swan attacked by adult swans -- The Regal Swan -- 10 March 2016

Hi Jeannine: The situation you describe is that of two adult (parent) swans telling the juvenile swan that it is now time to move on and find his own habitat and mate. This is playing out across the ...

1 cygnet stays behind with parent swans, why -- Jacqueline -- 9 March 2016

The swans in my local pond had 8 cygnets. They grew up till they had some dark feathers left and all flew away except 1, why is this?

Re: 1 cygnet stays behind with parent swans, why -- The Regal Swan -- 9 March 2016

Hi Jacqueline The last swan may have been the runt of the brood. Developmentally, it may not be ready to fly. There is also a possibility that there might be something wrong with him so that he ...

Third swan -- Annie -- 8 March 2016

Hi, Just a couple questions. First one pertains to a trio of swans, one which doesn't seem to be fully grown yet. It's almost spring, so I was wondering why it has come back with its parents, and why ...

Re: Third swan -- The Regal Swan -- 9 March 2016

Hi Annie: More than likely, the cygnet (baby swan) may not be old enough to fly or it is just about ready to fly, but not yet. The parents will keep the young bird around until the time that he/she ...

Putting swans on my pond -- Monica -- 7 March 2016

Hello..I love swans and would like to put on my pond...it is full of fish, (and unfortunately someone put koi in there too!!) blue heron, ducks, and Canada geese are always here) Do I need anything ...

Re: Putting swans on my pond -- The Regal Swan -- 8 March 2016

Hi Monica: You do need to check with your state wildlife officials as most states want to kill the Mute Swans. If you get a permit, the birds must be pinioned (partial amputation of the portion of ...

Visiting Swans -- Jozi -- 6 March 2016

We live on a lake that is home to a few hundred Mallards, geese and other types of ducks. Every weekend, two to three swans come to the lake. But it seems only on the weekend. Is that a coincidence ...

Re: Visiting Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 7 March 2016

Hi Jovi This is the beginning of the new nesting season. The birds may be traveling from pond to pond to search for nesting or food resources. They may also be fleeing from other swans in the area ...

Swan sitting alone by itself -- Addyson -- 6 March 2016

so there is this swan that left the lake I live on and is now sitting all by itself on the lawn by the road and hasn't moved for 3 days now occasionally it will move. The theory going around is it is ...

Re: Swan sitting alone by itself -- The Regal Swan -- 7 March 2016

Hi Addison There are a couple of reasons for this behavior. One is that the swan is a juvenile from this year and is being chased from the area by its parents prior to the new nesting season. This is ...

Can the sex of swans be guessed from pictures? -- CB -- 6 March 2016

Hi I raised a pair of Royal Mute Swans from Cygnet stage. They built a nest and she had 2 eggs. During the night a predator killed 1 of the swans about 4 years ago. I now have a swan and presume it's ...

Re: Can the sex of swans be guessed from pictures? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 March 2016

Hi CB: There is no way to determine the gender of a swan from a photo. First, we have seen males swans with small sized knobs as female swans with large knobs. So, even though the larger size knob ...

Re: Can the sex of swans be guessed from pictures? -- CB -- 6 March 2016

Can you tell from this picture if the 2 swans that displays their face are females or males. The middle swan has a bigger bulb and it's very aggressive and territorial. It acts like a male. Those 2 ...

Will Black and White Swans Become Mates? -- Patty -- 6 March 2016

We have a small lake with 1 black swan and 1 white swan. They usually don't even swim together. Today they are. Will a white and black swan become mates? I live in central Florida.

Re: Will Black and White Swans Become Mates? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 March 2016

Hi Patty: Usually, in nature the two species will not mate. However, we have seen owners of Mute Swans and Australian Black Swans intentionally breed the swans. It is not good. The swan is a hybrid ...

swans fly? -- xacia -- 4 March 2016

can swans fly ?

Re: swans fly? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 March 2016

Hi Xacia: All swans/birds can fly once their wings develop unless: 1. The birds have a genetic problem which causes a problem with the development of the wing structure. Sometimes a condition called ...

Swan Attacked By Goose -- Lynne -- 4 March 2016

Hi, Our lone pinioned male swan has been repeatedly attacked by at least two geese pairs that fly and trying to drown him by landing on his back. He is so frightened and will not come to eat. He has ...

Re: Swan Attacked By Goose -- The Regal Swan -- 4 March 2016

Hi Lynne: Normally, swans will chase the geese, not vice versa, but there is always the exception. Are the geese wild or captive? This behavior may be due to the nesting season. If the geese are ...

Re: Swan Attacked By Goose -- Lynne -- 7 March 2016

Good Morning, The female was hit by a car 2 years ago and this male was purchased by a group of residents to be a mate for the original female so I am sure he is a male. The geese are wild Canadian ...

Re: Swan Attacked By Goose -- The Regal Swan -- 7 March 2016

Hi Lynne An air horn may work, but there are two issues. 1. Don't scare the swan or he may have an issue with the horn, although he will get used to it. 2. Just like the swan, if you use it too much, ...

Re: Swan Attacked By Goose -- Lynne -- 7 March 2016

Thank you so much for the feedback.

Re: Swan Attacked By Goose -- The Regal Swan -- 8 March 2016

Hi Lynne: You are very welcome. Please let us know if we can be of further assistance and let us know how this situation progresses. The Regal Swan

Lonely white swan -- Sharon -- 4 March 2016

Hello I live in a village in Leicestershire. A while back we had a new housing development built not far from where I live, there is now a piece of land that is dipped with a fence round, I suppose ...

Re: Lonely white swan -- The Regal Swan -- 4 March 2016

Hi Sharon The swan should be fine. However, if there is concern, please call the RSPCA or Wendy Hermon at Swan Support in Datchet. Someone will come out and check the swan to see if the swan is sick ...

3 Swans a Swimming -- Tracie -- 2 March 2016

We had 4 swans and although we thought they were pinioned when babies, they were not so their feathers grow in every season; we are forced to clip them. This is only the 2nd year we had them. Back in ...

Re: 3 Swans a Swimming -- The Regal Swan -- 4 March 2016

Hi Tracie: 1. The swan may or may not return. There are several reasons for this uncertainty: the swan was too young and got lost and can't find its way back, unfortunately something may have ...

Swans nest and sprinklers -- Patricia -- 2 March 2016

The sprinkler system at my condo is causing to spray the nesting swan. Is this harmful?

Re: Swans nest and sprinklers -- The Regal Swan -- 2 March 2016

Hi Patricia: Usually, this is not a problem as long as it is not a direct continuous (hard) spray directly onto the nest. In other words, the sprinkler continuously move along its path of spray. In ...

Mute swan beak color -- D -- 1 March 2016

Hi, I have a mute swan that has returned to my pond in the past week or so. His (or her) orange on its beak is gone. It's a dull white or tan color now. Is he ok? My guess is that he is only 9 months ...

Re: Mute swan beak color -- The Regal Swan -- 1 March 2016

Hi D: There is nothing wrong with the swan. The swan is a juvenile and is not quite 1 year old. His/her bill will not start to turn orange until about 8-10 months of age and will not become totally ...

M/M pair -- Larry -- 29 February 2016

I had a pair of mutes. For no reason I know the female died. She was about 9 months old and he is about a 1 1/2 years. Man only has year old males left......will they be ok together? I'm not ...

Re: M/M pair -- The Regal Swan -- 1 March 2016

Hi Larry: Usually male swans will NOT re-pair with any other swan after the loss of their mate. Certainly, not with a new male introduced into his habitat. The best thing to do would be to leave him ...

Our Swan has flow away -- Barbara -- 28 February 2016

We had a resident swan on our lake for 2 and a half years. On Monday he (we think it was a he?) flew away. Will he return with his mate? He was so friendly and we could feed him by hand, He always ...

Re: Our Swan has flow away -- The Regal Swan -- 28 February 2016

Hi Barbara: Springtime and mating season is now occurring. Swans are looking for potential mates and nesting areas. If your swan can find a mate and is within the area, he/she may return. If your ...

Pair of Swans flew off -- Brian -- 26 February 2016

For 3 months we have had a pair of Swans on our 2 beautifull park lakes. They seemed to have everything they needed. The whole village were so happy as they were our first Swans. Last moday they just ...

Re: Pair of Swans flew off -- The Regal Swan -- 27 February 2016

Hi Brian: More than likely, the swans were just in your area on the annual migration. The swans used your lakes as winter stop-overs to feed and rest. Now, springtime is approaching which means that ...

Swan aggression -- Judy -- 23 February 2016

Hi, our neighborhood consists of about 100 homes, and we have three lakes with walking paths alongside them. About 1 1/2 years ago a group of homeowners purchased 2 male mute swans who are now 2 ...

Re: Swan aggression -- The Regal Swan -- 23 February 2016

Hi Judy: What you have is two male swans who are now becoming of age to mate and the testosterone levels are spiking. We do not call this aggressiveness, but rather defensive as they are protecting ...

Swan in fields with injured wing -- margii -- 22 February 2016

Hi I live in Delaware and there is a lone swan walking in the fields beside my house. There are no other swans around and there are only drainage ditches In the fields. We think it has an injured ...

Re: Swan in fields with injured wing -- Tracie -- 2 March 2016

Just wondering if the swan is still in the field. We live in West Chester PA and had a large female swan fly away in September. It was pinioned as a baby but it didn't take so it can fly but not very ...

Re: Swan in fields with injured wing -- The Regal Swan -- 22 February 2016

Hi Margii: There may be something wrong with the swan and if it has a wing problem and cannot fly, you are correct in that the bird could be easy prey for a predator. You need to check your state's ...

Black Swans in NY? -- Sylvie -- 19 February 2016

Are there black swans in New York?

Re: Black Swans in NY? -- The Regal Swan -- 19 February 2016

Hi Sylvie: Yes, there are Australian Black Swans in NY, both in captive settings and feral (wild) settings. Many of the Australian Black Swans may have been released intentionally or accidently if ...

Swans nesting in February (?) -- K & A -- 18 February 2016

Hello, We live in the Netherlands where the swan population is quite strong. We have a pair in the neighbourhood - we like to watch them in the mornings on the canal when they pass by our apartment's ...

Re: Swans nesting in February (?) -- The Regal Swan -- 18 February 2016

Hi K & A If the weather is starting to warm, the swans know this and are beginning to prepare for the mating season by building a nest. Also, if the temperatures are extremely cold during the ...

Fighting 3 year old male Mute Swans -- Ira -- 16 February 2016

I have 2 three year old males on my 1 acre pond here in Pennsylvania. They have been together since June of 2013. Lately they have been involved in knockdown, drag out fights. They have been friends ...

Re: Fighting 3 year old male Mute Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 18 February 2016

Hi Ira: This defensiveness is because of their testosterone levels. They are now of the age to mate and are exercising their ownership/territorial space of the habitat. Usually, this behavior will ...

Mute Swans in permanent residence in a field -- Peter -- 15 February 2016

Hi there, How unusual is it to see the same group of mute swans apparently living in the same large field - not adjacent to a lake or watercourse ? I think the've been there for about a year.

Re: Mute Swans in permanent residence in a field -- The Regal Swan -- 15 February 2016

Hi Peter: It would be a little peculiar for the swans to stay in a field and not fly or walk to an area with a pond or other suitable wetland. Apparently, there is plenty of food source if the swans ...

Need help re: swan club leg -- Patricia -- 15 February 2016

good morning we have pet swans at my work and 1 of them was born there and was born with a deformaty to his leg, what my boss calls a club foot. the swan in now about 15 yrs old and having a very ...

Re: Need help re: swan club leg -- The Regal Swan -- 15 February 2016

Hi Patricia: Unfortunately, if this is a Mute Swan, he may be killed by wildlife officials if you seek help. It totally depends on your wildlife laws regarding Mute Swans. Many states misrepresent ...

Male swan infertile? -- Gwen -- 14 February 2016

Female swans lay eggs, but none are fertile. Does that mean the male is infertile or won't fertilize eggs?

Re: Male swan infertile? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 February 2016

Hi Gwen: There could be several reasons that the eggs are not fertile: 1. The swans are not old enough to fertilize the eggs. This is especially true of swans 1-2 years of age. Some swans at 2 years ...

White swan appeared in our front yard -- Lisa -- 14 February 2016

Found a swan in the front yard..very snowy, but it walked about 20 feet and settled down. The pond is 3 houses over. What's it doing here? I don't know if it's looking for food and water. Pond is ...

Re: White swan appeared in our front yard -- The Regal Swan -- 14 February 2016

Hi Lisa: The swan needs to be captured and placed in a rehabilitation center for the winter or until the weather warms and the pond thaws. This means you will need to contact a wildlife/waterfowl ...

Black swan sitting on the grass -- Christine -- 13 February 2016

Hi I have a black swan sitting on 6 eggs on a island, the dad has gotten to the other end of the lake and is sitting on the grass and won't move even though I get close to it, which is very unusual. ...

Re: Black swan sitting on the grass -- The Regal Swan -- 13 February 2016

Hi Christine Did something scare him, or is he sick or injured? You need to capture him and exam him to make sure nothing is wrong. If you are unsure, get him to a licensed avian/waterfowl ...

Name of the white swan -- Brittany -- 11 February 2016

What is the actual name of the white swan?

Re: Name of the white swan -- The Regal Swan -- 11 February 2016

Hi Brittany: All northern hemisphere swans are white in color with southern hemisphere swans having some black coloration on their wings. There are 7 species and one subspecies of swan. So, the ...

Young swan moves very little on the canal -- Roger -- 11 February 2016

My property is bordered by two canals which lead to the River Stour (Suffolk). So swans are frequent visitors. My worry is, there is a young, isolated swan who never moves more than a few metres ...

Re: Young swan moves very little on the canal -- The Regal Swan -- 11 February 2016

Hi Roger: The swan could have been chased from the habitat by its parents due to the upcoming breeding season. He/she may be lost and not know where else to go. There could also be something wrong ...

Aggressive mute swan -- Sheryl -- 9 February 2016

Hi- I live on a 3 acre property with a pond. I have domestic ducks and geese. About 10 years ago a baby swan arrived out of nowhere (probably from the local golf course). At the time I had older ...

Re: Aggressive mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 9 February 2016

Hi Sheryl: Out of curiosity, what color is the swan's bill? In any case, what you have is an older swan that is acting like a swan, but has carried it a little too far. During nesting season, hormone ...

Would like to adopt mute swans in Tx -- Linda -- 2 February 2016

Dear Swan Specialist, I live in Texas. I am sitting here trying to find me 2 Swans. I am reading how some of the lakes are frozen: this is so sad. I would love to adopt 2 Mute swans if possible. I ...

Re: Would like to adopt mute swans in Tx -- The Regal Swan -- 3 February 2016

Hi Linda: There are several considerations prior to obtaining swans. Below is a brief synopsis: 1. Do you need a permit to possess the swans from your state wildlife officials? 2. If you get birds of ...

Re: Would like to adopt mute swans in Tx -- Linda -- 4 February 2016

Swan Specialist, Thank You, for this info. Linda Byrd

Re: Would like to adopt mute swans in Tx -- The Regal Swan -- 4 February 2016

You are very welcome Linda. The Regal Swan

Black Swan -- Christine -- 3 February 2016

Hi we have a black swan sitting at the moment, I am a bit concerned is it too early? She is on a small island; do I need to feed her with corn every day?

Re: Black Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 3 February 2016

Hi Christine You probably need to feed her, but in doing so not attract any predators to her. The best person to speak with is Wendt Hermon at Swan Support in Eton. Wendy will know about your climate ...

Trumpeter Swan limping -- Karen -- 1 February 2016

Hello, Here in Michigan we have a family of trumpeter swans and one 7 month old cygnet has been limping for about 6 days, she/he has flown the past 2 mornings but on land has a limp. What might I do ...

Re: Trumpeter Swan limping -- Karen Page -- 13 March 2016

Hello, Thank you! Our injured cygnet is much better, still has a slight limp though. I was able to get up close and did not see an open wound, like there was when I first emailed you for help. We ...

Re: Trumpeter Swan limping -- The Regal Swan -- 13 March 2016

Hi Karen You are very welcome. Glad to know there wasn't anything seriously wrong with the swan. Thanks for the update. The Regal Swan

Re: Trumpeter Swan limping -- The Regal Swan -- 2 February 2016

Hi Karen More than likely, this is a soft tissue injury such as a twist, sprain or strain. As long as it can fly and land, there isn't much you can do. If you try to capture the swan, it is going to ...

Lone swan -- Mandy -- 31 January 2016

On a pond near us there is a lone swan it's been there sometime the only other birds are a few ducks but no other swans anywhere to be seen. Why is this?

Re: Lone swan -- The Regal Swan -- 31 January 2016

Hi Mandy There could be several reasons for just one swan in a pond. The swan could be a swan that has lost its mate. The swan could be a young swan that was chased from the nesting area by his ...

Swan Protection -- John -- 30 January 2016

I work on a golf course in the Phoenix area. We are interested in getting a pair of swans as a focal point for our water features as well as a deterrent for wintering American Wigeons that can be ...

Re: Swan Protection -- The Regal Swan -- 30 January 2016

Hi John: Unless you can keep the birds indoors at night, we would strongly suggest that you not get any swans. The coyotes and bobcats will access the birds if they do not stay in the pond overnight. ...

Swan keeps hanging around the body of a deceased Trumpeter swan -- Diana -- 30 January 2016

There is a deceased Trumpeter swan in the field by my home which looks like it hit a power line. There is a lone swan that keeps hanging around the body. Should I move the body so it will move on ...

Re: Swan keeps hanging around the body of a deceased Trumpeter swan -- The Regal Swan -- 30 January 2016

Hi Diana: The Trumpeter Swans are protected so you might want to alert your state wildlife officials to the deceased Trumpeter Swan. You might also look on the bird to see if there is any contact ...

Winter care for mute swans -- Karen -- 20 January 2016

We have 2 mute swans that are living in our 5 acre man made lake. They originally showed up in Spring 2015, left for the summer and returned Sept 2015. They are still here and we have had very cold ...

Re: Winter care for mute swans -- The Regal Swan -- 21 January 2016

Hi Karen: If these are wild swans and can fly, they will not use a man-made shelter. Had they been captive, they could have been trained to come in at night. The only thing that you can do to help ...

Feeding swans -- Marge -- 20 January 2016

I live in northern Wisconsin on the Clam River. We have a number of swans swimming in the river (it does not freeze in the winter). I would like to know if I can feed them something and just how I ...

Re: Feeding swans -- The Regal Swan -- 20 January 2016

Hi Marge: The major issue is the species of swan and if your state wildlife agency allows feeding of wildlife. If they are Mute Swans, then you may not be able to help them as Wisconsin and other ...

A broken wing. Any hope to fly again? -- Anna -- 19 January 2016

If both radius and ulna are broken (the skin, however, is intact), is there any hope for a swan to fly again if the broken wing has been bandaged correctly and the bandage stays in place (the flight ...

Re: A broken wing. Any hope to fly again? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 January 2016

Hi Anna: First, have you had an x-ray taken. The first thing to determine is if the break is clean or fragmented. If fragmented, there is not much you can do except possibly amputate the wing near ...

Re: A broken wing. Any hope to fly again? -- Anna -- 20 January 2016

Thank you for all of this useful information! This is a very strange story, to be honest. I work in a park. Every year we have ducks and a few swans in our ponds (we don't have swans every single ...

Re: A broken wing. Any hope to fly again? -- The Regal Swan -- 21 January 2016

Hi Anna: Everything you have done has been perfect. You got the swan to a bird vet, domestic or wild, it is still a bird and domestic birds can sustain broken bones. So, having a bird vet is one good ...

How Do Swans Feed Their Young? -- Brinabella -- 19 January 2016

Hello! I am wondering how swans feed their young. Can you tell me?

Re: How Do Swans Feed Their Young? -- The Regal Swan -- 19 January 2016

Hi Brinabella: Birds that hatch from the egg with very little feathers, eyes closed and must rely on the mother bird for feeding and care until they are a few days or even weeks old are called ...

How to encourage a swan to stay on our lake? -- David -- 17 January 2016

A large white swan just showed up this weekend on our small lake in the southeast corner of the Texas Panhandle. Is it likely that it migrated to there? What can we do to benefit the swan, and/or ...

Re: How to encourage a swan to stay on our lake? -- The Regal Swan -- 18 January 2016

Hi David: More than likely it was on the migration path and got sidetracked. It will probably get something to eat, rest and then continue on its path. You probably do not want to keep the bird ...

Swan in cold weather, snow, canal partly frozen -- Lesley -- 17 January 2016

I visit a pair of swans every day and feed them, I have done this for two years now. And today it was cold, snow and with the canal partly frozen over, the cob was shivering his wing they were ...

Re: Swan in cold weather, snow, canal partly frozen -- The Regal Swan -- 17 January 2016

Hi Lesley: What you are describing is called the "Triumphant Sign". This usually occurs after mating or after chasing an intruder from the habitat. Swans will also shake their wings for stretching ...

Tundra Swan -- Nancy -- 16 January 2016

I work at a state park in N. VA as a park interpreter/naturalist. I am currently researching the Tundra Swans as they do reside in our bay and nearby marshes during our winter months. I have not been ...

Re: Tundra Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 17 January 2016

Hi Nancy: Your question is rather involved and would be too long to cover in this post. Therefore, we are going to try and answer this in a concise manner and point you into a direction that you can ...

Why do mute swans have black markings around their eyes? -- Yasin -- 14 January 2016

Why do mute swans have black markings around their eyes? The only suggested answer that I can find relates to the absorption of light, however other swans do not have these markings. As well as this, ...

Re: Why do mute swans have black markings around their eyes? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 January 2016

Hi Yasin: This is an interesting question as this is just may be the particular attribute that Mute Swans have as the coloring around the knob surrounds the eyes and ends near the bill. There are ...

Black swan in trouble, unexperienced owner -- Cristina -- 14 January 2016

Hi, My partner bought me 2 one year old black swans for Xmas. We live in Scotland, UK. 6 days ago we found one swan dead, and we now identified that one as being the male. They both lived on a pond ...

Re: Black swan in trouble, unexperienced owner -- The Regal Swan -- 14 January 2016

Hi Christina: Australian Black Swans are southern hemisphere species and cannot tolerate very cold weather. She needs to be brought in for the winter. Yes, you need to switch her to a mixture of ...

Feeding at night -- Roman -- 14 January 2016

id like to know whether it is ok to feed swan, goose and ducks at night? many thanks

Re: Feeding at night -- The Regal Swan -- 14 January 2016

Hi Roman: The feeding system (feeder) must be mounted in the water away from the bank or frozen waterways. If a bowl or food is left on the ground near the bank or so that the swans are attracted to ...

Injured Black Cygnet -- Bill -- 12 January 2016

I have black swans at my business, and now have 4 cignets a little over 2 months old. One got a line (fishing ) wrapped around its leg to the extent it almost lost it. I caught it and removed the ...

Re: Injured Black Cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 12 January 2016

Hi Bill Try to keep the cygnet in a zero entry water feature so that it can butt scoot into and out of the water. This will cause the cygnet to push off with its legs. Water therapy is good. Try to ...

Care for wild swans in extended cold weather -- Bill -- 11 January 2016

I work at a golf course in the St Louis Missouri area. At the beginning of this past summer a pair of white swans (I believe Regal swans) took residence on a pond on the golf course. With the mild ...

Re: Care for wild swans in extended cold weather -- The Regal Swan -- 11 January 2016

Hi Bill: The swans will usually fend for themselves, but if they are young swans and don't know how to migrate or can't find another area, they may stay in your pond. There are several things you ...

Winter Feeding -- Jo Ellen -- 11 January 2016

Please describe the process you use when feeding your swans during the winter. Do you use a feeder? What feed do you use? Will the swans walk across the ice to feed from a bowl? How much open water ...

Re: Winter Feeding -- The Regal Swan -- 11 January 2016

Hi Jo Ellen: The swans need approximately 20-30 feet of open water so that they can easily enter and exit the water onto the ice. Anything less, may cause the birds to drown by not being able to ...

Sick cygnet -- Alexa -- 11 January 2016

Hello, I just purchased an Australian black Cygnet from a poultry show yesterday. I didn't notice yesterday but i believe it's sick. It has runny eyes primarily. I can barely feel through all the ...

Re: Sick cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 11 January 2016

Hi Alexander Did the person you brought it from provide you with any veterinary papers? How old was the cygnet as they should not be taken from the parents until 5-6 months of age. Again, were there ...

Weird behavior -- Matija -- 10 January 2016

Hi, So we live near a pond where a family of swans lives. First there were 8 baby swans (little grey ones) but after few weeks 3 of the little ones disappeared. Now about year and a few months later ...

Re: Weird behavior -- The Regal Swan -- 10 January 2016

Hi Matija: This is perfectly normal behavior. The swans are getting older and are of the age that the parents are trying to get them to leave the habitat. The more chasing and harassment, the greater ...

Is it okay to have only one pet swan rather than two? -- Ken -- 10 January 2016

I know it is recommended to get two, is it bad to only get one?

Re: Is it okay to have only one pet swan rather than two? -- The Regal Swan -- 10 January 2016

Hi Ken: As long as you get a very young swan (l year old) that has not bonded with another swan, it is okay to only have one swan. However, it would be better if you could keep the lone swan with ...

Aggressive Black Swan -- Jackie -- 8 January 2016

Hi hope you can help on a couple of things:- Our male swan is very aggressive. What can we do anything to calm him down. We recently lost our female swan which we had for 7 years – we have purchased ...

Re: Aggressive Black Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 8 January 2016

Hi Jackie Male swans may or may not repair with another female after losing their mate. Usually, they do not. Australian Black Swans produce cygnets twice a year. Since you are not in Australia, his ...

Swans in icy ponds and icy waters -- Kathy -- 7 January 2016

There are many Massachusetts towns whose ponds and bodies of water freeze during the winter months. I see many stories of the rescue and failed rescue efforts to save swans frozen in the ice. ...

Re: Swans in icy ponds and icy waters -- The Regal Swan -- 8 January 2016

Hi Kathy The towns and communities are dictated to by the US Federal Wildlife Services and state wildlife departments. There is a collaborative effort among these agencies along with National Audubon ...

Re: Swans in icy ponds and icy waters -- Kathy -- 10 January 2016

I am new to this. I just don't know why ANY of God's creatures would be a target for elimination, especially since we have the MSPCA and other anti-animal cruelty organizations. Why is the Mute Swan ...

Re: Swans in icy ponds and icy waters -- The Regal Swan -- 11 January 2016

Hi Kathy Mute Swans are being targeted by federal and state wildlife officials and their hunting stakeholders Ducks Unlimited, National Audubon Society and Cornell University. Yes, you read ...

Swans on Ice: Can they take off? -- Nancy -- 7 January 2016

Can Swans take off from a large pond with limited water ? The pond is frozen except for a small space that they are floating upon. Thank you for your expertise.

Re: Swans on Ice: Can they take off? -- The Regal Swan -- 8 January 2016

Hi Nancy Swans need approximately 100 yards of free clearance for take-off. So, yes they can use the ice as a runway and a landing strip. The major issue is if they have enough room to exit the small ...

Size of male swan knob -- Marjorie -- 7 January 2016

Hi! Does the size of the Knob on the beak of the male Swan denote Age or Authority in any way? Thank you

Re: Size of male swan knob -- The Regal Swan -- 7 January 2016

Hi Marjorie The size of the knob usually denotes if the swan is a male or a female. Now, having said this, we have seen females with larger knobs than the males. Again, usually, but not always, the ...

Mute swans in rain forest? -- Jayme -- 4 January 2016

Do you think I can breed succesfully mute swans in rain forest Brazil? Here temperatures never drop below 23 centigrades at night and during the day the temperature can reach 34 centigrades, all year ...

Re: Mute swans in rain forest? -- The Regal Swan -- 4 January 2016

Hi Jayme You would need to speak with a swan breeder in Brazil. The Mutes might survive and reproduce, in your climate, but the Mute Swans are a more cold temperate bird. They can get heat stressed. ...

Light On The Swan at Night when Lake is Frozen Over -- Lynne -- 4 January 2016

Hi, We live on a lake in NJ and have aeration systems in place to try to keep it open for our lone swan. It has been difficult over the last 2 years due to the severe arctic weather and foxes try to ...

Re: Light On The Swan at Night when Lake is Frozen Over -- The Regal Swan -- 4 January 2016

Hi Lynne We have many lakes with a light on at night. It does not hurt the swan and will allow it to see predators. Yes, they can also see him, but as long as the pond does not completely freeze so ...

Re: Light On The Swan at Night when Lake is Frozen Over -- Lynne -- 4 January 2016

Thank you for the information.

Re: Light On The Swan at Night when Lake is Frozen Over -- The Regal Swan -- 4 January 2016

Hi Lynne: You are very welcome. Please feel free to contact us at anytime. The Regal Swan

Sick black swan wont eat her feed, can't walk, has goopy eyes -- Susie -- 3 January 2016

Our black swan is our sweet baby, and is now sick. She won't eat her feed, only fruits, and can't walk. She is inside for the winter, and always does well (she is about 8-9 years old). She also has ...

Re: Sick black swan wont eat her feed, can -- The Regal Swan -- 3 January 2016

Hi Susie You need to get her to a veterinarian quickly. Once a bird stops eating, they go down hill very quickly. She probably doesn't not feel great with the infected eyes which may not only itch, ...

Lone Mute Swan -- Nena -- 1 January 2016

I seen a swan by itself and asked about it. My friend said it had a mate, but got hit by a car. So now the swan is all by itself and seems sad. So i decided to visit every now and then and bring it ...

Re: Lone Mute Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 2 January 2016

Hi Nena: California and many other states want the Mute Swans eradicated from North America. Meaning, they have prohibited their flying in the wild by killing the birds, having rehabilitation centers ...

Wonderig what's wrong with a swan: Skinny neck and discoloured beak -- Shelby -- 1 January 2016

Hi I was at the Kearns point of the swan river and there were these three swans and one of them had a skinnier neck and discoloured beak it was not so red and it was more white and wasn't so close to ...

Re: Wonderig what -- The Regal Swan -- 1 January 2016

Hi Shelby Without seeing the swan, this is going to be a difficult determination. There could be several reasons for the beak discoloration and thin neck. The swan could be a cygnet (baby) or ...

Proposed -- Derek -- 25 December 2015

I was just curious. 17 years ago, I proposed to the women of my life. We were at an area that was beautiful during the summer in the midwest. There were many other people around. We were just on the ...

Re: Proposed -- The Regal Swan -- 26 December 2015

Hi Derek: Probably no meaning in this encounter other than you and your fiancée were possible food suppliers. If the opposite side of the pond had many other people and wildlife, you two were in an ...

Arranged swan marriage -- Kenny -- 25 December 2015

Hi I'm living in NW Ireland on an estuary with a recently bereaved single swan, only one within maybe 6 miles; on another inlet about 9 miles away there is another single swan .. My questions are: • ...

Re: Arranged swan marriage -- The Regal Swan -- 27 December 2015

Hi Kenny: Since the swans are protected, the only legal entities that could capture and relocate the swans are the RSPCA or a swan/wildlife rehabilitation facility. If there is nothing wrong with the ...

Young swans flapping their wings, forming a circle -- Annie -- 24 December 2015

A couple weeks ago, we were watching a group of swans that we were certain was that of the regular family, but with two members missing. Not that long after, a group of 5 came flying in and landed ...

Re: Young swans flapping their wings, forming a circle -- The Regal Swan -- 25 December 2015

Hi Annie Yes, sometimes the younger birds and their potential new mates and even family members from several years will try to return. Sometimes not always, but sometimes the returnees will be ...

Re: Young swans flapping their wings, forming a circle -- Annie -- 25 December 2015

Going from the last picture I caught of the behaviour, it seems like two of the kids were fighting. I have seen the cleaning behaviour a few times, so I can tell that wasn't it since the wings were ...

Re: Young swans flapping their wings, forming a circle -- The Regal Swan -- 26 December 2015

H Annie: Yes, from the view of this photo, it looks like the swan closest to the swan with the outstretched wings is chasing. The swan with the outstretched wings looks like it is trying to get away ...

Swan territory -- Elisita -- 21 December 2015

How do male swans protect their territory?

Re: Swan territory -- The Regal Swan -- 21 December 2015

Hi Elisita Both male and female swans may bite, but mainly flap their massive wings to strike at a predator or protect their young. Female swans tend to hiss as a warning more than the males. The ...

Additional Mate? -- Rachelle -- 18 December 2015

Hello, I saw swans on the river the other day - 3 adults travelling down river with three cygnets - I'm curious to know if swans have "alternative" family arrangements or an additional ...

Re: Additional Mate? -- The Regal Swan -- 18 December 2015

Hi Rachel More than likely, you are seeing an extended family. Not always, but sometimes older cygnets returning to the area will be allowed to join up with the new cygnets once they have reached a ...

Mute swan breeding -- Paul -- 16 December 2015

I purchased a pair 3 years ago. The first year the swams were 2 years old and she laid 7 eggs and would not sit on them. The last 2 years she did not lay any eggs. I am located in central ...

Re: Mute swan breeding -- The Regal Swan -- 16 December 2015

Hi Paul: There could be several reasons for the abandonment of the eggs. 1. The swan is too young and has no earthly idea how to care for the eggs. If this is the case, then next year should be ...

Why would sibling juveniles suddenly seperate -- Victoria -- 15 December 2015

We had two 8 month old mute swans that were Siblings that we've raised since they were 7 weeks old. We have a 4 acre pond that they have seemed pretty happy on. Last weekend they disappeared. We ...

Re: Why would sibling juveniles suddenly seperate -- The Regal Swan -- 22 December 2015

Hi Victoria At 8 months of age, the juveniles are ready to find a new home and start to pair with another swan. There is a possibility he will return to the family, especially if food is scarce. They ...

Male Swan Now Afraid -- Lynne -- 15 December 2015

Hi, We had 2 captive swans on our lake in NJ. The female was killed by a car about 2 years ago. The male has remained and did well without her. He swims around with the geese and ducks. It has been a ...

Re: Male Swan Now Afraid -- The Regal Swan -- 15 December 2015

Hi Lynne: More than likely it is the water mover that has him scared. You need to turn the device on for at lease twice a day for approximately 30-45 minutes so that he can get used to it and see ...

Swan with angel wing -- Priscilla -- 14 December 2015

I live in Mass. I have a swan with angel wing. He is alone, the rest of them left. I am so afraid of him being alone this winter. He made it through the last two but it is so sad to see him alone. ...

Re: Swan with angel wing -- The Regal Swan -- 14 December 2015

Hi Priscilla: Is he tame enough for you to catch him? He should be relatively easy to capture since he can't fly. He may not like you for a couple of weeks, but at least you can help him. If you can ...

Species of swan in North America -- Mauri -- 6 December 2015

What species of a swan is most often found in North American ponds or lakes and what are the characteristics

Re: Species of swan in North America -- The Regal Swan -- 7 December 2015

Hi Mauri: The most prevalent swans seen in ponds are the Mute Swans (orange beak) or the Australian Black Swans (black feathers with red bills). However, most wildlife officials (state and federal) ...

Swan nesting station -- Tom -- 4 December 2015

Good afternoon: I work for a retirement HOA here in the Phoenix, AZ area. In one of our small lakes we have a pair of swans that were donated to the HOA. They have had two hatches and have lost all ...

Re: Swan nesting station -- The Regal Swan -- 4 December 2015

Hi Tom The swans will probably not use such a man made structure. The best thing you can do for them is to add a few more bushes. They will use that much more, not only for shelter, shade, but also ...

Black swan cygnets missing -- Gina -- 3 December 2015

Hi, I'd like to ask @ what age can black swan cygnet's fly away from the pond they were born in? We had a pair of black swans breed in our public pond in early August this year; no one has seen them ...

Re: Black swan cygnets missing -- The Regal Swan -- 3 December 2015

Hi Gina Usually, the cygnets can begin flying around 6+ months of age, so if they are flying, they are much older than you think. If they are younger and cannot fly, then their walking from pond to ...

In the popular Swans feeding the Koi fish video what is going on? -- Dora -- 1 December 2015

Hello \-|"> Ive included the link of the video which created so much online debate.. I feel that the explanation given to the whole thing isnt good enough.. Below I'm listening 2 popular beliefs ...

Re: In the popular Swans feeding the Koi fish video what is going on? -- Dora -- 6 December 2015

I know they arent feeding the fish, somehow I thought they're kinda letting the koi get away with it or even doing what that parrot does which is unusual.. Anyway ok, got the point, thanks a lot I'm ...

Re: In the popular Swans feeding the Koi fish video what is going on? -- The Regal Swan -- 7 December 2015

Hi Dora: If the swans have a black bill with yellow markings they are the Bewick Swans (Cygnus bewickii bewickki), if they have orange bills they are the Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) or more yellow with ...

Re: In the popular Swans feeding the Koi fish video what is going on? -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 2 December 2015

Hi Dora 1. The swans are not feeding the fish. Swans must have water to eat so they do not choke. So, the swans are dipping the food and the particles of food separates and then is eaten by the fish. ...

Single White Swan in pound that has not iced over yet -- Signe -- 1 December 2015

I have a concern about a single juvenile swan that recently appeared at a nearby pond just a few miles off of our property. We've observed the swan for the last 6 weeks. And most recently winter ...

Re: Single White Swan in pound that has not iced over yet -- The Regal Swan -- 1 December 2015

Hi Signe: We're not sure where you are located, so we would advise to be very cautious about contacting your DNR. Many states will kill the bird just because it is a Mute Swan. So, if you need to ...

Are cygnets old enough to fly off on their own? -- Lauren -- 30 November 2015

I live on a lake in Northern NJ. A pair of wild swans which have been on the lake for years, had babies in May of this year (2015). Sadly the father swan died this past summer leaving the mother swan ...

Re: Are cygnets old enough to fly off on their own? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 November 2015

Hi Lauren: If the cygnets are able to fly, then it is possible that the other cygnet flew off either looking for another area or got lost. If it got lost, it may or may not find its way back. The ...

Help with our Mute Swans in Atlanta, GA -- Becky -- 25 November 2015

Hi--our condo association purchased 2 mute swans four years ago. This past Sunday, Jack got himself tangled up with one of our floating, aerating fountains on our 2 acre lake. I was able to cut him ...

Re: Help with our Mute Swans in Atlanta, GA -- The Regal Swan -- 25 November 2015

Hi Becky No, we do not have a rehabber. Do you live near a zoo or other such facility that might be able to help? Check with the Atlanta Aquarium and see if they know of a facility near you or a ...

Will bubbling of pond aerator scare away our swans? -- Stacia -- 23 November 2015

Our association in the Northeast has a small pond. Various swans visit in the Fall and Spring and stay for up to a month. We are considering installing a pond aerator with three bubblers. Will this ...

Re: Will bubbling of pond aerator scare away our swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 25 November 2015

Hi Stacia Any new addition to a swan's habitat could be disruptive. However, we have consulted with many habitats that have or have placed aerators (fountains and bubblers) into a swan habitat with ...

Missing Swans -- Rosanne -- 22 November 2015

Hello and thank you for your help on this site. I live on a pond that has had Swan bevies for the last 20 years. Some years we have had successful cygnets, some years not due to weather, turtles, ...

Re: Missing Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 22 November 2015

Hi Rosanne Yes, contact the Illinois DNR, the golf course and your homeowners association. If they had anything to do with it, they may deny it. But, if the IDNR had anything to do with it, a ...

Abandoned cygnets -- Pam -- 22 November 2015

We live near St. Louis Mo, in Edwardsville, IL . We were surprised to see a pair of Cignet swans nest in a pond near our house this spring. 3 offspring. One born earlier as it turned white sooner ...

Re: Abandoned cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 22 November 2015

Hi Pam If the cygnet can fly, but is not migrating, it probably means one of two things. The cygnet was too young and could not fly at the time of the migration by the parents so they had to leave. ...

Pond ice -- William -- 22 November 2015

I have 3/4 acre pond and two regal swans. What is a good product to keep part of pond ice free. Pond has 5 natural springs and only freezes when temp drops to single digits

Re: Pond ice -- The Regal Swan -- 22 November 2015

Hi William The springs will help to keep the pond from freezing due to their thermal temps. However, if the pond still freezes for any significant time, i.e., several days, the swans risk freezing, ...

Bowing heads -- Nicole -- 22 November 2015

Do swans bow their heads to other swans prettier or who have prettier feathers than them?

Re: Bowing heads -- The Regal Swan -- 22 November 2015

Hi Nichols The bowing of their heads is just an acknowledgement of recognition or other communication. Swans will even bow their heads for their caretakers or other familiar humans. The Regal Swan

Swan Behavior -- Annie -- 21 November 2015

Hi, I've been wondering about something I've been seeing swans (as well as Canadian geese) doing... I've seen them moving in a trampling manner sometimes before sinking their head into the water to ...

Re: Swan Behavior -- The Regal Swan -- 21 November 2015

Hi Annie: There are several reasons for the trampling. If there are turtles or other aquatic creatures in the area, the swans do not want to stick their heads under the water, especially if there are ...

Re: Swan Behavior -- Annie -- 25 November 2015

Thanks for the reply. I forgot to add that a few days later we saw the family all together. I would be surprised if the two groups I was referring to were both strangers, because the father of the ...

Re: Swan Behavior -- The Regal Swan -- 27 November 2015

Hi Annie: Thanks for the update. The Regal Swan

Black baby swan with broken leg -- Clara -- 20 November 2015

Hi there, my name is Clara and im originally from romania. My parents have a single baby swan ( he is black) - we think is 3-4 months old and abbt 10 days ago her leg got infected, was oozing and ...

Re: Black baby swan with broken leg -- The Regal Swan -- 20 November 2015

Hi Clara: The infection needs to be completely healed to ensure that the cygnet does not go septic. You can help rehabilitate the cygnet by allowing it to swim and exercise the leg. The cygnet may ...

Black Swans yearlings: Sexing; and seemingly underweight: Should I deworm? -- Julian -- 19 November 2015

Hello, I hope this message finds you great. I have a year-old pair of black swans and have a couple of queries on them please: 1) how I can tell the difference between male and female at that age ...

Re: Black Swans yearlings: Sexing; and seemingly underweight: Should I deworm? -- The Regal Swan -- 19 November 2015

Hi Julian: Unfortunately, at an age under or at 1 year of age, the only reliable method of sexing is DNA Sequencing. As far as de-worming, you will need to have a veterinarian prescribe you a ...

Re: Black Swans yearlings: Sexing; and seemingly underweight: Should I deworm? -- Julian -- 27 November 2015

Good morning to you, I urgently need your advice... One of my yearling black swans is showing signs of a reddish diarrhea and with a jelly appearance, something I had never seen before. The other one ...

Re: Black Swans yearlings: Sexing; and seemingly underweight: Should I deworm? -- The Regal Swan -- 27 November 2015

Hi Julian: We cannot diagnose something online without first examining the birds. Secondly, since we do not know the problem, we cannot offer a treatment, i.e., anti-parasitic, anti-fungal, vaccine ...

Lost juvenile swan -- Kristin -- 19 November 2015

Our neighbors down the road have swans. We have a 1/3 acre pond and 2 weeks ago we found one of their swans in our pond. It appears to be a juvenile mute swan as the feathers are a mottled ...

Re: Lost juvenile swan -- The Regal Swan -- 19 November 2015

Hi Kristin: The two most critical questions are: Is it a wild or captive swan? Can it fly? If it is a captive raised swan, no it will not fare well in the wild. It needs to be caught and taken back ...

Re: Lost juvenile swan -- Kristin -- 20 November 2015

The swans are captive raised but I don't think they take then indoors during the winter. We have a pond aerator so open water is not a problem. I just didn't know if they relied on their parents to ...

Re: Lost juvenile swan -- The Regal Swan -- 20 November 2015

Hi Kristin: Find out from the neighbors the age of the cygnet. If the cygnet is approximately one year of age, it should have already gotten its street smarts from the parents and should be able to ...

Male mute swan out, sleeping alot -- Barbara -- 17 November 2015

I live near a golf course that I am responsible for filling the swan feeding bucket. I usally go late afternoon and our male swan has been out sleeping on the grass. The female likes to eat her food ...

Re: Male mute swan out of the water, sleeping alot -- The Regal Swan -- 17 November 2015

Hi Barbara Staying out of the water longer than in the water is not usual behavior. It is one thing to hang out for 1-2 hours, but not too long. Also, sleeping a lot usually is a sign something may ...

Lonely female might not be able to fly away -- Barbara -- 17 November 2015

We have had a female swan on our lake for a year now after being chased away by parents. We are very concerned because she is on her own and we do not think she can clear the oak trees to fly away. ...

Re: Lonely female might not be able to fly away -- The Regal Swan -- 17 November 2015

Hi Barbara: Are you sure she is actually a wild swan and can fly? She may be pinioned which means a portion of the wing is amputated so that the bird cannot fly out and start a feral population. We ...

Grey swans born to white swans ? -- Connie -- 17 November 2015

Grey swans born to white swan parents on cape cod, mass?

Re: Grey swans born to white swans ? -- The Regal Swan -- 17 November 2015

Hi Connie: Yes, this is a common occurrence. Scientifically, all Mute Swans are known as Mute Swans or Cygnus olor. However, due to a color variation, swan keepers call them either Royal Mutes or ...

Father swan won't let cygnet in -- Elspeth -- 15 November 2015

There is a family of swans and cygnets in the pond at our local park Recently the male swan has been chasing one of the Cygnets out of the water and won't let her in; she is approximately 6months ...

Re: Father swan won -- The Regal Swan -- 15 November 2015

Hi Elspeth: It is time to migrate and move the cygnets (now juveniles) from their hatching habitat to other habitats to form alliances with other juveniles and eventually form a family of their own. ...

Swan eye infection/cut? -- Bradley -- 13 November 2015

I have two trumpeter swans who are about 5-6 months old. They have always appeared healthy until today, when I noticed the female had an eye issue. In her left eye, it looked like a mixture of ...

Re: Swan eye infection/cut? -- The Regal Swan -- 13 November 2015

Hi Bradley This definitely sounds like some type of injury with ensuing infection. You need to get her to a veterinarian. You do not want her to lose sight over something that could be readily ...

Re: Swan eye infection/cut? -- Bradley -- 13 November 2015

Okay thank you so much for your timely and informed response. The vet clinic is only opened for a few hours tomorrow but ill call and see if they can squeeze me in; i figure its better to try and ...

Re: Swan eye infection/cut? -- The Regal Swan -- 14 November 2015

You are very welcome Bradley. We look forward to hearing additional info after your visit with the veterinarian. The Regal Swan

Introducing swans to a lake -- Lynda -- 13 November 2015

We have just moved and have a small private lake in st Augustine, Fl. I would like to know if we could introduce swans to our lake? Where would I get them and how do you take care of them? Would they ...

Re: Introducing swans to a lake -- Lynda -- 15 November 2015

Dear Swan Specialist, Wow. I had no idea that swans were so labor intensive. My aunt alwats had them on her small lake and i just took them for granted. Not any more. We do not have alligators so i ...

Re: Introducing swans to a lake -- The Regal Swan -- 15 November 2015

Hi Lynda: You are very welcome. Predators, especially in Florida are a major cause of swan deaths. Even though there may not be an alligator in the pond today, it does not mean that they cannot walk ...

Re: Introducing swans to a lake -- The Regal Swan -- 13 November 2015

Hi Lynda: Swans are a labor intensive investment. You first, would need to prepare the swan's habitat. In Florida, the lake would need to be checked for alligators and if they are not considered a ...

How to tell the age of a swan? -- Lena -- 12 November 2015

A lovely lone swan has found me. How can I tell how old it is ? He /she hasn't the vibrant orange beak that most of the other swans have and it is alone ....

Re: How to tell the age of a swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 12 November 2015

Hi Lena: Unless you are at hatching and at the swan's death, there is no real way of knowing the exact age of a swan. However, because you state that it does not have the vibrant orange/red beak and ...

Swan & goose friendship! -- Gay -- 11 November 2015

The lake in our local park has a population of swans and also a flock of geese. One of the swans recently lost its mate and has "paired" up with one of the geese. They are always to be seen ...

Re: Swan & goose friendship! -- The Regal Swan -- 11 November 2015

Hi Gay: No, this is not strange. There have been many documented cases of various species which normally would not pair up as friends having done so when a mate is lost or unavailable. We have even ...

Do high flying swans ever circle -- Garth -- 2 November 2015

Yesterday above Buckinghamshire, England we saw about 20 large white birds circling high overhead during the afternoon, as if to gain height. On a sunny day here their bodies appeared very white and ...

Re: Do high flying swans ever circle -- The Regal Swan -- 2 November 2015

Hi Garth: We seriously doubt that the birds you were seeing were swans. Swans in the Northern Hemisphere have no black on their wings. But, yes, even if they were swans, they would circle, but at a ...

Black swan has 1 leg now -- Gina -- 2 November 2015

Can you please help me? I've noticed a baby swan with only 1 leg. He did have 2 legs. I think an eel attacked him. He is only 12 wks old & his parents have gone away. His other 5 siblings are 2 ...

Re: Black swan has 1 leg now -- The Regal Swan -- 2 November 2015

Hi Gina No, the parents have abandoned him knowing something is wrong. He will never be able to keep up. The best situation for him is to place him in a habitat that is completely enclosed so a ...

Cygnet that can't fly -- Terry -- 29 October 2015

Hello, we live on a large retention pond in South Carolina. For at least 3 weeks now we have had an immature ? Swan. It is big, but still has some grayish brown on him. We have watched him try to fly ...

Re: Cygnet that can't fly -- The Regal Swan -- 29 October 2015

Hi Terry You need to call a wildlife rehabilitation center or an avian/waterfowl veterinarian to have the swan examined. South Carolina may have a rule that vets can't treat Mute Swans, but we don't ...

Swan on land only? -- Michele -- 29 October 2015

There is a juvenile swan that is sitting in the middle of our street all day long. We live in south jersey on a lagoon. The swan is on land only. Doesn't look sick but I am concerned.. what should I ...

Re: Swan on land only? -- The Regal Swan -- 29 October 2015

Hi Michelle The NJ DNR wants to kill the Mute Swans and will not let wildlife rehabilitation help them. So, first thing you need to do is get him out of the road and safe from predators wild and ...

Re: Feeding and Veterinary Medical Program at Lake Eola, FL -- Jo Ellen -- 26 October 2015

What brand of swan feeder do you use?

Swan Feeders -- Jo Ellen -- 26 October 2015

I am looking for a swan feeder and am wondering which brand you would recommend?

Re: Swan Feeders -- The Regal Swan -- 26 October 2015

Hi Jo Ellen: We use the "Dog Café". At the bottom of this post, you will find a photo of the feeder mounted on a pole via u-bolts and placed 3 feet in the water. You want to be able to keep ...

Lone Swan -- Christin -- 24 October 2015

Hello. A family of swans has returned year after year to mate and raise their young on our Lagoon in New Jersey. Today there is only a sign of one swan. This swan is circuling the dock and falling ...

Re: Lone Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 24 October 2015

Hi Christin We would suggest that you get the swan out of the water or it could drown if it is seriously injured. Calling the NJ DNR and it's wildlife services will result in them killing the swan. ...

Legally moving a swan -- Robert -- 24 October 2015

Hello, I live on long Island in new York state. A swan ended up in the middle of town, and was there for a long time. I passed the swan at 1130 at night and it was still there around 10:30 the next ...

Swan transportation (cage) -- Marc -- 22 October 2015

What size of cage would be required to transport two Swans. Would be appreciated to get the details of the construction of the cage. Width, Height, Depth and if wire meshing or chicken wire would be ...

Re: Swan transportation (cage) -- The Regal Swan -- 23 October 2015

Hi Marc Each swan needs to be transported in a separate dog carrier (the kind used for airlines). The size should be dictated upon the size of the swan and the ability for the swan to stand, stretch ...

Do swans fly in the rain -- Melissa -- 22 October 2015

Am writing a story about a mute swan who wants to fly away from the pond which he and his mate has lived by after the mate dies. Do/will swans fly in the rain? Would you read my story and consult on ...

Re: Do swans fly in the rain -- The Regal Swan -- 23 October 2015

Hi Melissa Yes, we would be glad to consult. Please contact the webmaster of this post and you will be given an email contact. As far as flying in the rain, probably not. We have seen swans and other ...

Swan in town pond -- Julia -- 21 October 2015

I would like to know if there is a such thing as winter resistant swans? I drive to work every morning and been seen the swan on local pond. Should I call the wild animal control? The winter is near, ...

Re: Swan in town pond -- The Regal Swan -- 21 October 2015

Hi Julia: As long as the pond does not freeze, the swan should be fine. If the temperatures dip below 40 for an extended period of time and the pond freezes, then intervention may be needed. Swans ...

Adult swans chasing a cygnet -- John -- 19 October 2015

I regularly visit a remote pond where 2 swans have cygnets. I watched the adult swans pursuing a cygnet back and forth across the pond while 4 other cygnets were not harassed. I returned to the pond ...

Re: Adult swans chasing a cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 19 October 2015

Hi John More than likely this was a cygnet from another family. He was being taught to go home and not get into other swan families' habitat. The only other possibility would be if there was ...

Flying -- Jennifer -- 18 October 2015

when swans fly, do their necks get tired?

Re: Flying -- The Regal Swan -- 18 October 2015

Hi Jennifer That is a really good question. The answer would probably be that they do get tired, but most of the work comes from their large strong wing muscles. In any case, just like other birds, ...

Black swans cygnets: can they survive a winter? -- Joan -- 16 October 2015

We have lived on the river Itchen for 16 years and each year have watched white swans nesting and raising their young, however this year ther were no cygnets at all. We do see the occasional black ...

Re: Black swans cygnets: can they survive a winter? -- The Regal Swan -- 16 October 2015

Hi Joan: The survival of the swans during the summer is completely dependent upon the weather and temperatures. Australian Black Swans are southern hemisphere swans and therefore, will not do well in ...

Swan Incubator -- Arthur -- 14 October 2015

Hello, I am interested in purchasing an incubator for swan eggs. I need a commercial grade/high end unit. Is there one you can recommend that would be suited for swan eggs? Thanks, Arthur

Re: Swan Incubator -- The Regal Swan -- 14 October 2015

Hi Arthur In a short answer, no. Swan eggs are much more difficult to artificially incubate. The incubation temperature is much higher and the humidity has to be exact. That does not even account for ...

How to assist amputated swan with artificial leg to walk again -- Fiona -- 12 October 2015

Hi there, We live about 45 minutes south of Johannesburg, South Africa. We bought a house a couple of years ago that came with two black swans, Romeo and Juliet. Both have had their wings clipped. ...

Re: How to assist amputated swan with artificial leg to walk again -- The Regal Swan -- 12 October 2015

Hi Fiona & Guy: This is going to be a tough one, but you need to keep the prosthetic on him all the time as long as you do not see any rubbing which can cause an open sore and possible infection. ...

Re: How to assist amputated swan with artificial leg to walk again -- Guy and Fiona -- 23 January 2016

Hi, Sadly Romeo passed away, we think from all the stress. Now we are left with juliet, the female. Please advise if you think we should find her another mate or should we leave her alone. Thank you ...

Re: How to assist amputated swan with artificial leg to walk again -- The Regal Swan -- 23 January 2016

Hi Fiona: We are so sorry for your loss. Know that you did everything humanely for Romeo, but sometimes bird injuries are very difficult to treat. In the case of Juliet, as long as she has other ...

Re: How to assist amputated swan with artificial leg to walk again -- Guy and Fiona -- 25 January 2016

Thank you for your response. Juliet is with a ruddy shell female duck and they seem to get ok. Funny you mention geese; we have a separate pond area for them (20 now ) and let them out keeping the ...

Re: How to assist amputated swan with artificial leg to walk again -- The Regal Swan -- 25 January 2016

Hi Guy and Fiona: Sometimes geese and swans get along quite well as long as there is no issue regarding abundance of food, nesting sites, etc. We would suggest taking 2 geese -no more than 2 and ...

Brown swans, white siblings and parents -- Connie -- 5 October 2015

Two brown swans born with white siblings and white parents. Why are they brown?

Re: Brown swans, white siblings and parents -- The Regal Swan -- 6 October 2015

Hi Connie: All Mute Swans are scientifically known as Mute Swans. However, swan keepers call the swans either Royal Mutes or Polish Mutes. Again, no scientific name, just a name that the swan keepers ...

Do swans eat eggs? -- Zoe -- 4 October 2015

Hi there, I was visiting Prospect Park today (in Brooklyn NYC), watching a group of swans (some adults and some cygnet) and geese. Some other people were feeding the birds bits of bread so there were ...

Re: Do swans eat eggs? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 October 2015

Hi Zoe Normally, swans eat aquatic vegetation and may eat some plankton found in and around the vegetation. Swans don't usually eat eggs, so we are wondering if this might not have been a dough ball. ...

Re: Do swans eat eggs? -- Zoe -- 6 October 2015

Hi Regal Swan, I was exceptionally close to the swans (see photo of swan in question) and myself and others saw it eat an egg, for certain, as we could see the egg shell shatter! If you come across ...

Re: Do swans eat eggs? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 October 2015

Hi Zoe: Thanks for the update. This is certainly not something that we have seen. It may have been an opportunistic occurrence where the swan saw something in the water and decided to taste/eat it. ...

When to stop feeding? -- Cathy -- 4 October 2015

Hoping you can tell me when I should stop feeding 4 Swans who come and go from my backyard pond. I live in Ontario. I am not here most of the winter and I am afraid if i continue feeding they won't ...

Re: When to stop feeding? -- The Regal Swan -- 4 October 2015

Hi Cathy: Migration should start soon. If your area freezes, then you should stop feeding them and let them go about their business. However, if your pond is in an area that does not usually freeze, ...

Missing swan -- Vanessa -- 4 October 2015

We have two swans appear on our pond each year and they usually stay for roughly two weeks before flying off. This year two swans have appeared, they have been here for a week. However, after feeding ...

Re: Missing swan -- The Regal Swan -- 4 October 2015

Hi Vanessa: Yes, it is normal as the other swan may be searching for another habitat, especially if the swans need better resources such as shelter and food for the upcoming inclement winter weather. ...

Parents left the cygnets alone -- John -- 3 October 2015

we have had Two parents swans and two off spring swans on our pond since late May. All of a sudden the parents have left the pond. Is that their way of teaching the young to make it on their own? ...

Re: Parents left the cygnets alone -- The Regal Swan -- 4 October 2015

Hi John: There may be a couple of explanations for this scenario. First, this is migration season and the swans may begin to leave the area. If there is something wrong with the young birds and they ...

Sibling swans -- Geraldine -- 3 October 2015

Can swan siblings mate?

Re: Sibling swans -- The Regal Swan -- 3 October 2015

Hi Geraldine: Yes, this is how most bird flocks propagate their flocks, especially during times or areas when other swan families or flocks are scarce. Many bird flocks began and continue to survive ...

Brown swans? -- Helen -- 1 October 2015

Do brown swans exist? Thanks.

Re: Brown swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 1 October 2015

Hi Helen Usually, most swan species are either black or white. However, you might be observing the cygnets from this year. Swan species are white or black in color as adults, but are usually taupe ...

Mother seems to have abandoned cygnets? -- Emily -- 30 September 2015

Hello! My boyfriend & I have been watching a swan family since April or May. Up until last month, they always stuck together - a mom, a dad, and six cygnets. In August, we went to visit them twice ...

Re: Mother seems to have abandoned cygnets? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 September 2015

Hi Emily Yes, this is all normal behavior. The parents are letting the juveniles explore on their own because migration is nearing. The parents will chase them from the area so that they will join ...

baby swans disappeared -- Donna -- 29 September 2015

I have been watching these two swans in a pond by where I work. They hatched three baby swans, I think two died and now they raised one. A white crane that looks like them but much smaller hung ...

Re: baby swans disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 29 September 2015

Hi Donna Hopefully, the Michigan DNR did not have them killed. Michigan and other state and federal wildlife officials are labeling (falsely) Mute Swans as invasive, non native and aggressive so the ...

Vent sexing adult swan -- Jody -- 28 September 2015

Hello, I have vent check my swans before, but one I missed a cob for a hen. Can you show me how to be sure when vent checking? Thank you, Jo

Re: Vent sexing adult swan -- The Regal Swan -- 28 September 2015

Hi Jody Vent checking or probing is the least reliable method unless the swans are 1 year older or more. The male genitalia will not be developed prior to that age. And, just as you described, you ...

cygnets update -- Lisa -- 28 September 2015

Hi there After much confusion and studying the cygnets behaviour, we think dad has run off with yet another and abandoned mum (he did the same last year). Now he is bullying mum who has chosen to ...

Re: cygnets update -- The Regal Swan -- 28 September 2015

Hi Lisa Absolutely gorgeous. Thanks for sharing. The Regal Swan

Will juveniles stay together -- Lisa -- 31 October 2015

Hello again Babies are doing well and still growing! Could I ask at what age they will want to part company, if at all? Please Photo update attached. Thank you Lisa

Re: Will juveniles stay together -- The Regal Swan -- 31 October 2015

Hi Lisa The answer lies with the parents. Do they migrate or do they stay in your pond year round? Does your pond freeze? If migration and pond freeze occurs, then there is a greater chance that the ...

Re: Will juveniles stay together -- Lisa -- 31 October 2015

Hi there Thank you for your help. The marina has frozen in the past but not for long. Mum and dad have left them to their own devices for a while now so as you say, we will have to wait and see what ...

Re: Will juveniles stay together -- The Regal Swan -- 31 October 2015

Hi Lisa You are very welcome. If you are going to get a milder winter with no pond freeze, the birds may stay for the winter. Please let us know how this works out. The Regal Swan

Wry neck? -- Dianna -- 28 September 2015

I have a 5 year old male Australian Black Swan. We found him very sick 3 weeks ago. He had lost a lot of weight and was not eating. I started giving him Tylan injections 2 times daily and oral ...

Re: Wry neck? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 September 2015

Hi Dianna Has a veterinarian seen him? There are several reasons his neck could be in this position along with not eating. Botulism, lead poisoning, phosphatefertilizer or any other toxin could cause ...

Re: Wry neck? -- Dianna -- 23 October 2015

Hi. Thanks so much for the information. I found out a day or so later my swan had lead toxicity. We have completed Ca EDTA chelation. He is on oral Flagyl (Vet recently found flagella in his stool.) ...

Re: Wry neck? -- The Regal Swan -- 23 October 2015

Hi Dianna: For the next few days, tube feed him with Exact bird food or another emergency baby bird food that your vet can recommend. The emergency bird feed for tube feeding will provide him with ...

Whistling noise when swans fly -- Gary -- 28 September 2015

What makes the whistling noise when swans fly?

Re: Whistling noise when swans fly -- The Regal Swan -- 28 September 2015

Hi Gary This is the sound emitted from the flapping of their wings. Tundra Swans were once known as the Whistling Swans because of the air passing through their feathers and wings as they flew making ...

Black Swan shaking it's head at Westin Hotel Maui -- Stephanie -- 27 September 2015

Hello, I was just at the Westin Hotel in Kaanapali, Maui in Hawaii where they have a black and white swan swimming on their ponds as display for the guests. A group of adults and children were ...

Re: Black Swan shaking it -- The Regal Swan -- 27 September 2015

Hi Stephanie If the behavior was seen only after eating the bread, it may have been trying to dislodge a piece in its throat or nose. Food should always be given in water, otherwise swans and other ...

Is our swan dying? -- Terry -- 26 September 2015

For what reason does a member of a swan family go into another pond alone for days (so far)...not eating, just merely seems perched on top of the water...is this bird dying? Terry

Re: Is our swan dying? -- The Regal Swan -- 26 September 2015

Hi Terry Not eating is not a good sign. But, the swan could be eating sporadically and even at night or other times you are not constantly watching. No matter, the swan needs to be captured and taken ...

sick swan -- donna -- 24 September 2015

I have a swan that is not eating or drinking much. she has lost a lot of weight. I have tried force feeding but she has not liked that. could you give me some advice? I don't think she is going to ...

Re: sick swan -- The Regal Swan -- 25 September 2015

Hi Donna If she is not eating on her own, this is not a good sign. She needs to be examined by an experienced avian (bird)/waterfowl veterinarian. She may have an infection, ingested some type of ...

Adopting? -- Karla -- 22 September 2015

Hi. I had a pair of male mute swans that we purchased as yearlings 10 years ago. They got along well the majority of the time but during the spring they would become aggressive with each other (and ...

Re: Adopting? -- The Regal Swan -- 22 September 2015

Hi Karla: If you can keep them separated on different sides of the habitat so that they have absolutely no way of contacting each other, then we would go along with your providing him a very good ...

Winter quarters -- Andy -- 21 September 2015

Where do swans go for the winter?

Re: Winter quarters -- The Regal Swan -- 22 September 2015

Hi Andy: If the swans are in the U.S., then there are 3 flyways. West down to Arizona, Midwest down to Mississippi and East down to North Carolina. Of course, all of this is up to the individual ...

Swans with no parents -- Tom -- 14 September 2015

There is a large pond near where I live, it had 2 swans with 7 cygnets, one of the adult swans was found dead at the side of the pond about 1 month ago, some people say it was attacked by a dog, ...

Re: Swans with no parents -- The Regal Swan -- 14 September 2015

Hi Tom This could be normal behavior for the parent to abandon the cygnets once they are old enough to survive on their own. However, with the demise of the one parent, possibly from predation or ...

Do swans lay eggs every year? -- Michael -- 12 September 2015

Do swans lay eggs every year?

Re: Do swans lay eggs every year? -- The Regal Swan -- 12 September 2015

Hi Michael This is a complicated question depending on species, age of swans, gender and resource availability. Normally, all adult swan pairs (male and female) species of breeding age (and no ...

Mute swan lost his mate -- Elaine -- 10 September 2015

Hi, Mute swan has lost his mate. He is in the pond & crying for her. Large amounts of white feathers were found leading to believe she isn't alive. The couple stays in the Cape Ann, Ma area ALL ...

Re: Mute swan lost his mate -- The Regal Swan -- 11 September 2015

Hi Elaine If there is a large amount of feathers in an area, it usually means an attack by a predator. If she survived and was not seriously injured, she may have flown to another area and will ...

Cygnets abandoned -- Lisa -- 10 September 2015

Hi there I think the mum n dad have been ousted from their territory by another pair now but the cygnets have stayed in a group together. They are only just over 4 months old now and still come to ...

Re: Cygnets abandoned -- The Regal Swan -- 10 September 2015

Hi Lisa: These are some very big cygnets. They look like they may be around 6 months of age. In that case, the parents will leave them alone for a while. If the parents are being chased by the other ...

Re: Cygnets abandoned -- Lisa -- 11 September 2015

Thank you so much for your advice. They are rather large but then I suspect it's because they are so well fed! They were born during the first week of May. We will keep a very close eye on them and ...

Re: Cygnets abandoned -- The Regal Swan -- 11 September 2015

Hi Lisa: You are very welcome. Thank you for monitoring the cygnets. We spoke to Wendy Hermon at Swan Support in Windsor. She asked that we give you their number so that if you have any concerns you ...

Re: Cygnets abandoned -- Lisa -- 12 September 2015

Hi again That is fantastic, thanks so much. We had contacted the RSPCA before when one of the cygnets who was white was chased off by dad at only a few weeks old but the RSPCA wouldn't attend, which ...

Re: Cygnets abandoned -- The Regal Swan -- 12 September 2015

Hi Lisa You are very welcome. Thank you for your kind words. The Regal Swan

Cygnet with wing deformity, cannot fly -- Christopher -- 9 September 2015

I live on Staten Island NY, I work at a marina and care care of the local resident swans, one of there cygnets writhing the last month looks like his wings are deformed. I called the local audabon ...

Re: Cygnet with wing deformity, cannot fly -- The Regal Swan -- 9 September 2015

Hi Christopher Call Animal Care and Control at 311 They have experienced animal/wildlife rescuers that can capture the cygnet and get it to the Wild Bird Fund which will examine and treat if ...

Re: Cygnet with wing deformity, cannot fly -- Zorada -- 24 September 2015

I live on the harbor and think I know what swan you're speaking of. I was actually researching the deformity when I came across this thread.

Re: Cygnet with wing deformity, cannot fly -- The Regal Swan -- 24 September 2015

Hi Zorada Is the cygnet still in the area? We have been trying to get it some help, but need to know the exact location. If you could post your contact number to this post, the webmaster Will Not ...

Re: Cygnet with wing deformity, cannot fly -- Zorada -- 8 October 2015

Sorry for the delayed response- I haven't seen the cygnet in quite a while! I was wondering if someone was able to catch him. The family usually hangs out at either the Seaside nature Park or Port ...

Re: Cygnet with wing deformity, cannot fly -- The Regal Swan -- 8 October 2015

Hi Zorada Thanks for your offer of assistance. We have not heard anything new, but if we do, we will call you. Thanks again. The Regal Swan

Bleedig swan -- Flo -- 8 September 2015

Two swans arrived at my grandparents house yesterday. Both seemed fine until I noticed that this morning one of them is bleeding from the bottom area. I don't know the sex but believe it to be ...

Re: Bleedig swan -- The Regal Swan -- 8 September 2015

Hi Flo Yes, please immediately contact the RSPCA as they will capture it or send a swan rescuer. If you are in the Windsor/London area you can call Swan Support. Go to their website and they should ...

Found swan egg floating on river -- Patsy -- 6 September 2015

Hello We found a swan's egg floating in the River Thames still intact. What should we do with it? Please advise. I believe it might explode. I would appreciate some advice. Thanking you in advance. ...

Re: Found swan egg floating on river -- The Regal Swan -- 6 September 2015

Hi Patsy Yes, the egg will probably explode leaving a nasty smell and mess. Mother swans do not abandon viable eggs, but will kick non fertile or bad eggs from the nest. Since you do not know how old ...

slaughter of swans in Indiana -- Fritzi -- 6 September 2015

We have recently had over 20 swans destroyed on our lake. Many of the residents are horrified, but the DNR does such a good job of quoting information and I don't know where to look to counteract ...

Re: slaughter of swans in Indiana -- The Regal Swan -- 6 September 2015

Hi Fritz We are very well aware of Indiana DNR officials misguided Mute Swan killings, as well as their blatant misrepresentations of the swan species and ignorance of current scientific research. We ...

Swan family suddenly ups and leaves pond -- Debbie -- 5 September 2015

The other day I was riding my bike and looked out over one of these Sound inlets and saw dead fish.They appeared to be Bunkers. That is not too unusual because bluefish chase bunkers, sometimes ...

Re: Swan family suddenly ups and leaves pond -- The Regal Swan -- 5 September 2015

Hi Debbie There is something terribly wrong within the water, i.e., algae outbreak producing bacteria induced toxins, sewage, fertilizer or other man-made run-off. Fish are more susceptible to the ...

Re: Swan family suddenly ups and leaves pond -- Debbie -- 6 September 2015

I live on the sound... Long Island Sound and front page local news, this morning had these headlines in bold black -- GASPING FOR BREATH. About the spreading pollution in the Sound. So, you are ...

Re: Swan family suddenly ups and leaves pond -- The Regal Swan -- 6 September 2015

Hi Debbie Yes, how crazy is it that state and federal wildlife agencies blame the Mute.Swan for polluted waters with no scientific research? Yet, they fail to do their actual jobs in preventing and ...

Coscoroba swan sitting too long on eggs -- Sillie -- 3 September 2015

Hi My coscoroba swans laid their second batch of eggs on the 15th of July so their hatching date should have been anything from the 19th-24th of August. The eggs are, however, not hatched yet. Their ...

Re: Coscoroba swan sitting too long on eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 3 September 2015

Hi Sillie Mom knows best. Her count and human's count are two different things. Her count will not start until the last egg is laid. Because she was disturbed during the initial egg laying, that only ...

Re: Coscoroba swan sitting too long on eggs -- Sillie -- 3 September 2015

Oh thank you guys so much I am really happy to hear that! I was so worried that I would have to stress her even more. And I will definitely let you know what happens. I do have one last question ...

Re: Coscoroba swan sitting too long on eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 3 September 2015

Hi Sillie: No, nature does not work that way. Nothing is going to jeopardize the family or flock. To sit for nothing on non-viable or non-fertile eggs would increase the chance of death due to ...

A swan in my little ditch bank... -- SE -- 2 September 2015

[We] pulled up to the house where we resides and noticed a swan in the ditch but we never seen one around here because were not surrounded by water but small ditches in our neighborhood. Im just ...

Re: A swan in my little ditch bank... -- The Regal Swan -- 2 September 2015

Hi: If the swan is still in the immediate area within an hour, you need to contact a local wildlife rescue facility/wildlife rehabber so that the swan can be captured and examined. If there is ...

High levels of blue -green algae -- jack -- 28 August 2015

Hi Just want to say I love your website (following for ages) & haven't seen anything else like it on the web! I've been keeping an eye on the only swan family on a London lake for 4 months. High ...

Re: High levels of blue -green algae -- Admin -- 29 August 2015

You can contact Wendy Hermon or Joan at Swan Support in Windsor/Eton. Phone: 7572-450967 They may be able to help! They are waiting for your phone call. Please let us know if you connected with them.

Re: High levels of blue -green algae -- jack -- 29 August 2015

Thank you both very much for this. I will contact Swan support as you suggest asap & send you further details separately.

Re: High levels of blue -green algae -- The Regal Swan -- 29 August 2015

Hi Jack You are very welcome. Wendy Hermon and her group, Swan Support are fantastic and should be able to offer assistance. The Regal Swan

Re: High levels of blue -green algae -- The Regal Swan -- 28 August 2015

Hi Jack Thanks for your kind words. We are in the process of trying to get you help, but because of the time difference, we may not be able to contact anyone until tomorrow. Could you please send ...

Swan upside down paddling -- Linda -- 20 August 2015

Swan upside down paddling then rolled over dead so quickly

Re: Swan upside down paddling -- The Regal Swan -- 20 August 2015

Hi Linda: If the swan was paddling upside down before its demise, something was extremely wrong. Either it was severely sick, injured or died from old age. The paddling upside down was indicative ...

Swan feathers -- Judy -- 18 August 2015

After two years of dreaming, visualizing, talking, planning & preparation, a group of 11 practiced women are in final preparatory stage for our sacred Sweat Lodge. It was decided some time ago to ...

Re: Swan feathers -- The Regal Swan -- 18 August 2015

Hi Judy: You may need to contact a local swan breeder and see if he/she can provide you with some feathers. If the feathers come from a wild swan, especially a Trumpeter Swan, you may need to get a ...

Prestigious 2016 Indianapolis Prize has named Sheila "one of the top 28 conservationists" -- Regal Swan Foundation -- 18 August 2015

The prestigious 2016 Indianapolis Prize has named Sheila as "one of the top 28 conservationists in the world!" The Indianapolis Prize is the world's leading conservation awards and largest! This is ...

Female mute swan deserted family for 2 weeks -- Sarah -- 18 August 2015

Hi We have had a pair of mute swans in the river beside our house for years. On 4th August, the female disappeared leaving the male and 4 well grown cygnets. She returned today, 18th August. Before ...

Re: Female mute swan deserted family for 2 weeks -- The Regal Swan -- 18 August 2015

Hi Sarah: If a swan gets sick or injured, the flock/family may shun them or they may seek isolation away from the flock/family. The reason for this is so that if they are ill, the flock/family does ...

5 month old swan died, was making a rattling noise almost like he had a cold -- Donna -- 16 August 2015

I have 6 swans that are 5 months old. Last week one of them started staying away from the others. When I would go to feed him he sounded like he was making a rattling noise almost like he had a cold. ...

Re: 5 month old swan died, was making a rattling noise almost like he had a cold -- The Regal Swan -- 16 August 2015

Hi Donna Without a necropsy, there is no concrete way of knowing exactly what caused the swan’s death. However, short of having something stuck in its throat, there is a good possibility that the ...

Re: 5 month old swan died, was making a rattling noise almost like he had a cold -- Donna -- 17 August 2015

Can you tell me if there is something wrong with this swans neck by looking at it? It's acting ok, I would just hate to get too far along if this is an obvious sign of something.

Re: 5 month old swan died, was making a rattling noise almost like he had a cold -- The Regal Swan -- 18 August 2015

Hi Donna There is either something lodged in the throat or he has some type of injury/deformity. Sometimes parents accidentally step on the cygnets in the nest and can cause this deformity. You need ...

Re: 5 month old swan died, was making a rattling noise almost like he had a cold -- Donna -- 18 August 2015

Thank you very much. It has not looked like that until 2 days ago so I will get him in right away! Thank you

Re: 5 month old swan died, was making a rattling noise almost like he had a cold -- The Regal Swan -- 18 August 2015

Hi Donna: You are very welcome. Please let us know the outcome. The Regal Swan

Clipping wings -- Victoria -- 15 August 2015

We have two swans that I have been raising since they were two months old. They are currently about four months old. We have a 4 acre pond which we have a pen on for them to be in during the day and ...

Re: Clipping wings -- The Regal Swan -- 16 August 2015

Hi Victoria: No matter how long swans or other birds are raised in an area, if they can fly, they will fly in order to explore other areas. When they fly, they can get lost or be attacked by ...

Swanless Lake -- Ros -- 15 August 2015

Ever since I moved to Northampton (UK) in 2000, there have been a pair of swans living on our local lake. If a pair should leave for whatever reason, a new pair would always replace them within a ...

Concerns about warts on swan foot -- Katy -- 14 August 2015

We had two swans, a male and female, and just recently lost the female. We took her to the emergency vet, but it was too late. They weren't able to tell us the cause of death so we are now overly ...

Re: Concerns about warts on swan foot -- The Regal Swan -- 14 August 2015

Hi Katy: We are very sorry for your loss. Do you have an aerator on the lake? Rainwater can cause algae blooms which deplete oxygen in the water resulting in non-aerobic (non-oxygen) bacteria ...

Would like to buy a female trumpeter swan -- Doreen -- 13 August 2015

Hi! I am pretty sad to see my male trumpeter be alone, so I am interested to buy a female one. Can someone offer some information about where I could get one in PA,DE and MD area? I greatly ...

Re: Would like to buy a female trumpeter swan -- The Regal Swan -- 14 August 2015

Hi Doreen: First, before you start trying to buy a female, there are no guarantees that the male will re-pair with another female if he lost his first mate. Even if he never had a mate, there are no ...

Three month old cygnet shunned by swan family -- Pat -- 9 August 2015

I live on a quarry. We have two adult swans who have babies every June. Usually only 2 or 3 cygnets live and they always leave before winter. This june they had nine cygnets. They are almost as big ...

Re: Three month old cygnet shunned by swan family -- The Regal Swan -- 9 August 2015

Hi Pat: Swan parents may shun their young because of illness or injury. There is something wrong with the cygnet and the parents do not want any disease to spread to the rest of the cygnets. ...

How many cygnets -- Patty -- 9 August 2015

How many baby swans do swans have at a time

Re: How many cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 9 August 2015

Hi Patty: This is a complex question because it depends on species, age, habitat resources and individual attributes. Typically, all swans excluding Australian Black Swans can produce 1-8 cygnets, ...

Solo Swan -- Friday -- 7 August 2015

For several months now, I've noticed a lone swan in a pond near my home. The pond is a private pond at a rental home but the property is vacant. Is this normal for swans to be solo? I considered ...

Re: Solo Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 8 August 2015

Hi Friday: Since we do not know where you are located, we cannot determine if this is actually a captive swan vs wild swan. If this is a rental area/homeowner's association, then someone probably ...

Vaccines for swans for Pond disease/Botulism -- Cherokee -- 5 August 2015

where can I buy the vaccines? Also: Botulism vaccine. Where do I find it for my swans?

Re: Vaccines for swans for Pond disease/Botulism -- The Regal Swan -- 6 August 2015

Hi Cherokee If you can post to this site, your veterinarian's name and phone number, our veterinarian will get in touch with him/her and provide the name of the vaccine, proper dosage, booster ...

Rescued baby swan can't walk on leg -- Ashley -- 5 August 2015

I rescued a baby swan (someone brought him to me after his parents were killed) when he was a day old. He has been doing fine (he's 13 weeks old now), and my female duck's have taken him in with no ...

Re: Rescued baby swan can -- The Regal Swan -- 5 August 2015

Hi Ashley We have never given a swan an aspirin. Our vets prescribe Medicam so you will need to have a vet exam the cygnet. He may have sprained the leg, but if it is permanent, it is going to be ...

What effect do pinioned swans have on a small lake or pond -- Rob -- 5 August 2015

Since pinioned Trumpeter swans were added to our small lake (aprox 3 acres) our huge population of channel catfish, frogs, crawdads and turtles have disappeared and the water is not near as clear as ...

Re: What effect do pinioned swans have on a small lake or pond -- The Regal Swan -- 5 August 2015

Hi Rob We would suggest that there may be another underlying cause. However, having said this, governmental wildlife officials have for years misrepresented Mute Swans as being non-native, invasive ...

Re: What effect do pinioned swans have on a small lake or pond -- Rob -- 5 August 2015

Guess I should have mentioned that they are Trumpeter swans and that the water has been tested. They said the water was fit to drink. (sorry, I'll pass on drinking) Anyway Thanks

Re: What effect do pinioned swans have on a small lake or pond -- The Regal Swan -- 6 August 2015

Hi Rob No, we would not want to drink the water either. We are sorry that we could not be more specific to your issue. However, without seeing water tests prior to the swan’s arrival and post ...

Moving swans nest & feeding site -- Carol -- 5 August 2015

Hi- My HOA in KS has a pair of swans that have been with us for about 7 years in one particular spot where they have their nest in one of our residents back yards on the lake where he feeds them. ...

Re: Moving swans nest & feeding site -- The Regal Swan -- 5 August 2015

Hi Carol: Yes, you can get them to move their nest and feeding areas, but it is going to take some time and effort on your or whomever is going to care for the swans in the future. First, if the ...

Baby swan abandoned in my back yard -- PT -- 3 August 2015

Hey So there is a 2 month old swan sitting next to my tree in the back yard.. anyways it was kind of windy and stormy the other day and this swan has been sitting there for the past 24-48 hours. The ...

Re: Baby swan abandoned in my back yard -- The Regal Swan -- 3 August 2015

Hi PT: Let's hope you are not in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota and some other states as they will kill the parents and the young. Hopefully, this is not what separated the young ...

Nesting swans: How many times a year? -- Dave -- 3 August 2015

Is it possible that swans can breed twice a year?

Re: Nesting swans: How many times a year? -- The Regal Swan -- 3 August 2015

Hi Dave: Most all swan species mate throughout the year as a bonding mechanism to keep the pair together. Even though they mate throughout the year, they only produce one brood per year. The ...

Would like to keep swans, need help assessing properties with ponds -- Gerry -- 3 August 2015

My wife and I are currently shopping for a new home in rural NY. We commonly see properties that have small ponds (say 1/4 to 1/2 acre) on them, sometimes just fluctuating-level catch basins for ...

Re: Would like to keep swans, need help assessing properties with ponds -- The Regal Swan -- 3 August 2015

Hi Gerry: NY and several other states would be the last state that you would want to have swans. The NY DEC wants to kill all of the Mute Swans so they like many other states can introduce the larger ...

Re: Would like to keep swans, need help assessing properties with ponds -- Gerry -- 5 August 2015

I guess I should have been more clear in my first post. I'm interested in keeping nonnative species of swans, but not Mutes. And I'm not asking about the legal situation, as I know other people who ...

Re: Would like to keep swans, need help assessing properties with ponds -- The Regal Swan -- 5 August 2015

Hi Gerry: Thanks for the clarification. We should have also been more concise. The reason that we are informing you about the legalities is that it does not matter what size pond you have, or ...

Update on Michigan swan -- Kim -- 31 July 2015

i Just want to give an update on the swan from a little lake in the state of Michigan that we thought had a broken leg. Well come to find out the male swan was shot with an arrow. We got the arrow ...

Re: Update on Michigan swan -- The Regal Swan -- 2 August 2015

Hi Kim: Great news. Hopefully, Michigan DNR won't try to kill him. Thank you and the other rescuers for saving the swan. We're sure he is very grateful to all of you. The Regal Swan

Swans have gone missing -- Ronda -- 29 July 2015

We have had multiple trumpeter swan pairs on our lake and the 3 surrounding lakes for several years. This year we had pairs early on. Then we had a lone female show up with 5 cygnets that were very ...

Re: Swans have gone missing -- The Regal Swan -- 29 July 2015

Hi Rhonda: There could be many causes for their disappearance. If there was a predator in the area or another Trumpeter Swan family, your swan family could have been chased or the mother removed the ...

Cygnet leg tucked in on the top of its back -- Rebecca -- 29 July 2015

Hi , We are holidaying in the Cotswolds in the UK . We are staying on a lake and it has a male and female adult swan on the lake . They have one young cygnet ( grey )with them and it looks healthy ...

Re: Cygnet leg tucked in on the top of its back -- The Regal Swan -- 29 July 2015

Hi Rebecca: Without seeing the cygnet, we are not sure what might be occurring. Usually, swans will place one leg on their back for rest or to dissipate heat since there is an abundance of blood ...

Re: Cygnet leg tucked in on the top of its back -- Rebecca -- 1 August 2015

Hi , Just to let you know that all is well with cygnet . Hope you get the picture Both legs in water now Thanks for reply Kind regards Rebecca

Re: Cygnet leg tucked in on the top of its back -- The Regal Swan -- 2 August 2015

Hi Rebecca: Great news. Thanks for sharing. The Regal Swan

Age of swans when they can fly -- Nancy -- 28 July 2015

At what age do young swans fly?

Re: Age of swans when they can fly -- The Regal Swan -- 28 July 2015

Hi Nancy It takes approximately 4-6 months of age before some swans fly. Depending on the species, the development of the wing structure, when the mature plumage fills in, the individual swan, etc., ...

Swan with a prosthesis leg and foot -- David -- 27 July 2015

After three months i will be getting my swan back from the vet. She will have a prosthesis leg and foot. I have many questions: !. Can she be around the other two swans. One of the swans was her ...

Re: Swan with a prosthesis leg and foot -- The Regal Swan -- 28 July 2015

Hi David: If she has been separated for long enough that the other swans have bonded, it is unlikely that she will be accepted by the male, and definitely not by the female. Even if she were ...

Can Whooper & Mute swans mate? -- James -- 26 July 2015

We have a female Whopper Swan and a male Mute Swan....both seem to be in love........could they ever mate?

Re: Can Whooper & Mute swans mate? -- The Regal Swan -- 26 July 2015

Hi James: It is possible, but highly improbable. We have seen where different species of swans have mated and even produced offspring, but humans intervened to make this happen. The offspring were ...

Submerged eggs... -- Tania -- 25 July 2015

Hi there, Is it possible for an egg to still be ok after being submerged in water for a few hours, I am thinking no, but just wanted to know for sure. Thank You

Re: Submerged eggs... -- The Regal Swan -- 26 July 2015

Hi Tania: No, the embryo/cygnet cannot survive. Most likely, there was something wrong with the eggs, infertile or the cygnet not viable and the parents kicked the eggs into the water. The Regal Swan

How to keep swans away -- Lynn -- 25 July 2015

I want to know if there is something to keep swans away. Our neighbors swans keep coming to our pond. They are beautiful...... but are leaving big nasty piles & we have grandkids that we like to ...

Re: How to keep swans away -- The Regal Swan -- 26 July 2015

Hi Lynn: The only thing that will prevent them from coming into your pond area is some type of barrier. You might try a temporary poultry fence or fence made from wood stakes and windscreen, ...

Trumpeter Swan laid eggs 57 days ago, still no cygnets -- Dennie -- 24 July 2015

My question pertains to a matted pair laid of Trumpter Swans. This is her first clutch and she laid her last egg 57 days ago and no cignets have hatched. Mom is still sitting on eggs. She is looking ...

Re: Trumpeter Swan laid eggs 57 days ago, still no cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 24 July 2015

Hi Dennie: Trumpeter Swans are a protected species so any moving or tampering of the eggs may get you in trouble. The young mother swan may have no idea what she is supposed to do and this could ...

Cygnets vanishing -- Jacquie -- 24 July 2015

Hi I have been enjoying watching a family of two adult and 5 cygnets near my partners boat in Kent. It has been lovely seeing the babies growing and the bond they all seemed to have. Sadly last night ...

Re: Cygnets vanishing -- The Regal Swan -- 24 July 2015

Hi Jacquie: Any number of causes could be the reason for the cygnets' demise. Cygnets, just like ducklings, goslings and other young are so small that they are readily accessible to predation by ...

Swan taking on other swan's young -- Trish -- 23 July 2015

Hello, Could you please let me know if a female swan would steal another's young? Saw a swan separating a mother from her babies. Is this because she wants them for herself, or a ploy to get them and ...

Re: Swan taking on other swan -- The Regal Swan -- 23 July 2015

Hi Trish: More than likely, the mother swan was trying to protect the cygnets and went toward the threat and left the cygnets in an area that they could readily escape. Swans teach their cygnets to ...

Abandoned cygnet, bad balance, problem with one eye, prefers to sit still. Prospects? -- Ina -- 21 July 2015

Hi! Two weeks ago I found a tiny mute swan cygnet. It was alone and extremely weak, curled together on a field next to the ocean. No sign of any other swans around. I took it home, got it to eat - ...

Re: Abandoned cygnet, bad balance, problem with one eye, prefers to sit still. Prospects? -- The Regal Swan -- 21 July 2015

Hi Ina No, he cannot go onto a pond, and even then, a very protected pond until he is approximately 6-7 months of age. Because his mother abandoned him, and probably knew something was wrong with ...

Baby swans kept shaking their heads, died -- Sean -- 19 July 2015

i LOST TWO BABY MUTE SWANS THIS YEAR TO SOME TYPE OF SICKNESS NOT SURE WHAT IT WAS. BEFORE THEY DIED THEY KEPT SHAKING THEIR HEADS AS IF TRYING TO CLEAR IT. MY VET WAS NOT SURE WHAT IT WAS.

Re: Baby swans kept shaking their heads, died -- The Regal Swan -- 19 July 2015

Hi Sean Without a necropsy, there is no 100% diagnosis. However, the leading causes of shaking heads could be ear mites or some other parasite, or neurological problem caused by aspergillosis, a ...

Swan sitting on eggs 2 months after first sighting -- Tina -- 18 July 2015

We have swans, we have watched hatch eggs for 15+ years. We saw the first sighting of eggs on may 8th; there were six eggs. Its now over two months later and we only have 3 eggs. I know if something ...

Re: Swan sitting on eggs 2 months after first sighting -- The Regal Swan -- 18 July 2015

Hi Tina If she is still rotating the eggs, then they are still viable. Your count is different than the mother swan's. Her count (incubation) begins after the last egg is laid. So, as long as she is ...

Feeding of adult swans -- Lori -- 17 July 2015

we have 4 adult swans. What is the correct amount of food and how many times per day should they be fed? They are on a dry swan mix right now fed every morning. Want to make sure we are feeding ...

Re: Feeding of adult swans -- The Regal Swan -- 17 July 2015

Hi Lori Swans feed all day and sometimes through the night. The amount of food depends upon the availability of sub aquatic and other vegetation in the habitat. The more sparse the vegetation, the ...

Problem with Coscoroba swan nest -- SWDT -- 16 July 2015

Hi! I really hope you guys might be able to help me. I have a pair of gorgeous coscoroba swans that recently had eggs! I was of course thrilled by this and excited to see the cygnets. The female was ...

Re: Problem with Coscoroba swan nest -- The Regal Swan -- 16 July 2015

Hi: If the eggs were left out in the open, not being sat on by the female, then they are not going to be viable. This new nest building may or may not result in any viable eggs being laid. The female ...

Mute swans of the same sex -- Yenise -- 16 July 2015

Hello, Almost four years ago I received a pair of mute swans as a gift. Supposedly it was a male and a female. They live on a small lake I have on my property and are super happy! The only problem is ...

Re: Mute swans of the same sex -- The Regal Swan -- 16 July 2015

Hi Yenise: The problem you now have is that these swans have bonded, regardless if they are the same gender. This means that you would have to separate them and this is not a good idea for several ...

Mute Swan Cygnet Left Alone -- Sandy -- 15 July 2015

I live on a small wetland lake in Pontiac, MI. Six cygnets were born and as of July 6 only one baby has survived. For many days the cygnet was seen with only one parent. Today, July 15, the cygnet is ...

Re: Mute Swan Cygnet Left Alone -- The Regal Swan -- 16 July 2015

Hi Sandy It is difficult to say if the young bird will survive as there are several factors to consider. 1. Is it old enough To fly? If so, the parents may be taking a break and will return to junior ...

Black & White Swans: What distance do they need to fly off water and land -- Paul -- 12 July 2015

Could you please tell me how much of a distance Australian Black & Mute Swans need to fly off water & land I'm purchasing these birds that have not been pinioned I have a large enclosure of a ...

Re: Black & White Swans: What distance do they need to fly off water and land -- The Regal Swan -- 12 July 2015

Hi Paul: They need approximately 100 yards, approximately 30-40 yards to get airborne and about the same to get lift away from obstacles. You can pinion them, but they need to be done quickly as the ...

Aggressive swan -- Sandra -- 8 July 2015

Hi, we have a boat on the river hamble in hampshire....... we are having trouble with a swan that blocks our bathing platform and wont let us of the boat. this sounds funny, but its actually not. I ...

Re: Aggressive swan -- The Regal Swan -- 8 July 2015

Hi Sandra: There are two issues occurring in your situation. First, the swan probably has a nest and/or cygnets and your boat is a threat. Second, someone else may have been running up onto the ...

Black swan problem: neck curled up on her back and head resting on her back -- Rick -- 8 July 2015

I have a young swan who became sick over a weekend, It was guessed that she had bottulisum. she was drooping her head walking backwards and not eating, or unable to eat. I took her to the vet and she ...

Re: Black swan problem: neck curled up on her back and head resting on her back -- The Regal Swan -- 8 July 2015

Hi Rick: Yes, we have experience with this condition. It may or may not be botulism. It could be any type of toxin that causes the condition where the neck rests on the back. Usually, not always, but ...

Re: Black swan problem: neck curled up on her back and head resting on her back -- Rick -- 13 July 2015

Would it do any good or any harm in giving an antitoxin vaccine at this time? If so where can I get some?

Re: Black swan problem: neck curled up on her back and head resting on her back -- The Regal Swan -- 13 July 2015

Hi Rick No, a vaccine would be too late and the damage may already be done. You might have the veterinarian give her an i.v. drip to try and flush her system. Also, add an antibiotic and use charcoal ...

Found swan egg -- Jim -- 7 July 2015

I found a single swan egg in mucky seaweed and it is green. is the swan alive inside ?

Re: Found swan egg -- The Regal Swan -- 7 July 2015

Hi Jim: If an egg is not under the mother for a significant amount of time and, especially if it is in the water, there is no chance that the egg is viable. Mother swans will dispatch eggs by taking ...

Black swans: Pioning, and could brother and sister mate? -- Paul -- 6 July 2015

Hi, just purchased a pair of Swans. I was told that birds are little over 12 month old; birds never been pinioned, he clips birds wings stop them flying away; is it too late to pinion being they are ...

Re: Black swans: Pioning, and could brother and sister mate? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 July 2015

Hi Paul: If you pinion the swan after 1-3 weeks of age, you must have them placed under anesthesia. Amputating the portion of the wings after 3 weeks of age is a very difficult surgery for the swans ...

Swan following a jet ski -- Dave -- 6 July 2015

A swan was following closely behind me while I was on a jet ski going slowly. His neck was literally pushed back against his body....I was concerned for his health and well being. Is this normal for ...

Re: Swan following a jet ski -- The Regal Swan -- 6 July 2015

Hi Dave: This behavior is known as "busking" and it is representing a very ticked-off swan. You were in his area, mainly a nesting habitat probably cygnets (baby swans) and he was protecting them by ...

Did white bread kill cygnet? Baby Swan Died on 7/5/15 -- Karen -- 6 July 2015

Hello, I am happy to report that after the 2nd try.. the swan couple at Cove Island Park had 4 successful babies this year (after their 1st nest was sadly washed away). I had reported that in earlier ...

Re: Did white bread kill cygnet? Baby Swan Died on 7/5/15 -- The Regal Swan -- 6 July 2015

Hi Karen: The only three ways that bread could have caused this death would be that the cygnet was fed without water and choked, the bread was moldy or poisoned. So, we would seriously doubt that the ...

Re: Did white bread kill cygnet? Baby Swan Died on 7/5/15 -- Karen -- 6 July 2015

Thank you so much. The other babies are fine. This poor little guy I think was a little weaker. However, this must have been internal, as he looked and felt perfect when I held him. Felt very full ...

Re: Did white bread kill cygnet? Baby Swan Died on 7/5/15 -- The Regal Swan -- 6 July 2015

Hi Karen: Thanks for your kind remarks. You also provided some additional information that could be the cause. Saltwater. If the parents are not finding any freshwater for the cygnets or themselves, ...

Re: Did white bread kill cygnet? Baby Swan Died on 7/5/15 -- Karen -- 7 July 2015

Oh no!! I have no idea if they are finding water other than the ocean! So far the other 3 are okay. OMG, I am praying they will be okay. Thank you for your note. We have not had much rain!!

Re: Did white bread kill cygnet? Baby Swan Died on 7/5/15 -- The Regal Swan -- 7 July 2015

Hi Karen: The parents are smart. Even though the parents can't take the cygnets elsewhere until they fly, they still may be finding areas of fresh or less brackish water. They should do fine. The ...

Re: Did white bread kill cygnet? Baby Swan Died on 7/5/15 -- Karen -- 7 July 2015

You specialists are awesome! PS: The swans are hanging out between the fresh water and ocean (I realize now). It is that spot where the fresh meets the ocean. The other 3 babies are still fine. I ...

Re: Did white bread kill cygnet? Baby Swan Died on 7/5/15 -- The Regal Swan -- 7 July 2015

Hi Karen Don't beat yourself up over this, it is nature. Not all are expected to survive or we would be tripping over swans, ducks, alligators, etc. There was something else wrong with the cygnet. ...

Swan leg out to the side of his body -- Helen -- 5 July 2015

There is a swan out on our lake that keeps one of its legs out to the side of his body above the water level. It will occasionally tuck it back in. Is this normal?

Re: Swan leg out to the side of his body -- The Regal Swan -- 6 July 2015

Hi Helen Yes, this is normal behavior unless the swan has difficulty entering and exiting the pond with that leg. Swans will keep one leg extended when floating on the water for two reasons. The ...

Agressive mom swan -- Cindy -- 4 July 2015

Hi. I had messaged you awhile back about our swan laying eggs in the barn early spring. They hatched and everything looked good. Had 2 healthy cygnets. They reached 2 months of age when one was ...

Re: Agressive mom swan -- The Regal Swan -- 5 July 2015

Hi Cindy: The idea to get them in a barn with a separated area so that they cannot crawl into the area with the parents is a wonderful idea. Just ensure that no predators can access the barn by ...

Malnutrition and cygnets -- Sharon -- 3 July 2015

Hello, We are in Weldon Spring MO and our 2 swans had 6 cygnets. We are down to 3 now due to illness. They are now 2 months old and they look like they are suffering from malnutrition. Someone said ...

Re: Malnutrition and cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 3 July 2015

Hi Sharon: Absolutely DO NOT feed them cat or dog food. This is too high in protein and can cause them to develop a condition called angel wing, slipped or backwards wing. This occurs when the diet ...

Photo of the cygnets -- Sharon -- 3 July 2015

Cygnet feeding -- Christian -- 2 July 2015

Hello, my name is Christian, and I would like some advice if you have a second. We are in charge of a breeding pair of white mute swans, we raised two cygnets last year, and have 5 now. A lady comes ...

Re: Cygnet feeding -- The Regal Swan -- 2 July 2015

Hi Christian: Yes, the lady is absolutely correct. Swans can choke without water so they eat by dipping the food in water or eat soaked food. If you feed the swans dry food, then the food must be ...

Swan incest and genetic problems -- Terry -- 2 July 2015

What about the of spring partnering with parent: will this cause any genetic problems down the road?

Re: Swan incest and genetic problems -- The Regal Swan -- 2 July 2015

Hi Terry Genetic problems can be seen in swans, but in our experience with veterinarians having more than 40 years of veterinary care, it is extremely rare. Birds are not mammals, so inbreeding does ...

Molting swans intimidated -- Lynn -- 1 July 2015

Hi again, thanks for the advice on fighting swan males - the "time-out" had to be repeated couple of weeks later, but eventually worked. Latest installment on the swan drama: they're ...

Re: Molting swans intimidated -- The Regal Swan -- 1 July 2015

Hi Lynn: Glad the timeouts worked. But, payback is not good. The ducks are getting their payback as the swans cannot fight back with moulting feathers. However, swans are like elephants, they have ...

Swans more likely to attack males or females? -- Stephanie -- 28 June 2015

Are swans more likely to attack females rather than males?

Re: Swans more likely to attack males or females? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 June 2015

Hi Stephanie Like most male species of any kind, they will usually go after another male. However, should a female swan get too close to the nest or cygnets, a male will also chase her and may ...

Wandering swan -- JM -- 27 June 2015

Hi there! My brother just bought a beautiful property with a pond and it came with two swans owned by previous owners. They have a wandering swan. They are younger swans - we do know that there were ...

Re: Wandering swan -- The Regal Swan -- 27 June 2015

Hi JM The problem is that the new swan is not being accepted by the original swan and is being chased from the area. There are two problems. One, you may have introduced a swan of the same gender and ...

Do swans get lonely? -- Jacqueline -- 26 June 2015

Hello I live opposite a pond in Scotland. Years ago two swans would always come here and then a good few years ago the male returned alone. Every year he returns alone and I watch him sit there alone ...

Re: Do swans get lonely? -- The Regal Swan -- 27 June 2015

Hi Jacqueline: This is normal behavior in the swan world. If a male swan should lose its mate, it may or may not re-pair. This depends on the individual swan and species. However, usually, the male ...

Returning cygnets to parents after 2 months. -- Donna -- 25 June 2015

Our mute swans had 8 babies this spring. Two of them were gone by the end of the first week due to snapping turtles. Every year snapping turtles get them within the first 2 weeks. This year we ...

Re: Returning cygnets to parents after 2 months. -- The Regal Swan -- 26 June 2015

Hi Donna: You will be better off either raising them until they can be released back onto the pond and fend for themselves (if your pond is big enough to house 8 birds), or find them a good home. ...

Re: Returning cygnets to parents after 2 months. -- Donna -- 30 June 2015

You were right. We tried it in and they were not too happy. They are back with me! I have had them pinioned. We live in a neighborhood that has several ponds in it. I will put them in one of the ...

Re: Returning cygnets to parents after 2 months. -- The Regal Swan -- 30 June 2015

Hi Donna Yes, they need access to land. From the photos, you will need to wait at least 4-5 months before you put them in a pond by themselves. These cygnets will not survive on their own at this ...

Re: Returning cygnets to parents after 2 months. -- Donna -- 4 July 2015

Hello again, We have built the pen half on water half on land. It is on the same pond as the parent swans. This is the only pond where they will have people to care for them. I built a double layer ...

Re: Returning cygnets to parents after 2 months. -- The Regal Swan -- 5 July 2015

Hi Donna: We're not sure that the parents can recognize them unless they were with the young for several days or weeks prior to their removal. However, the parents are curious and may adopt them ...

Re: Returning cygnets to parents after 2 months. -- Donna -- 6 July 2015

They seem to be stalking the cygnets. There are 40 ducks around them and the swans completely ignore them. I'll keep you posted. Thank you for your help.

Re: Returning cygnets to parents after 2 months. -- The Regal Swan -- 7 July 2015

Hi Donna: They are probably concerned because they know that swans are in a pen, not ducks. Just observe their behavior and see if they are communicating with the cygnets. This behavior may also be ...

Cygnet left alone -- Angie -- 26 June 2015

Hi - We have mute swans who have nested on our big lake for the first time. They had 5 cygnets and lost 2 but recently we have seen the adults for a whole day without the cygnets and now a single ...

Re: Cygnet left alone -- The Regal Swan -- 26 June 2015

Hi Angie: He would be better off with his parents. But, you will have to be careful and not just dump him into the pond where the parents are now located. If you can capture him, carry him to the ...

mute swan rescue in the city -- Nick -- 25 June 2015

hello I recently rescued a white mute swan, I've had him since he was two weeks old and grown very attached to him, my daughter even says he is my best friend. I rescued him from a ranch that I work ...

Re: mute swan rescue in the city -- The Regal Swan -- 25 June 2015

Hi Nick: Some states require a license to possess a mute swan, because they want them dead. In fact, if you turn the swan over to a rehabber or other facility, he may land up dead. You do not want to ...

One adult missing after nest failure -- Pamela -- 25 June 2015

Is this normal?

Re: One adult missing after nest failure -- The Regal Swan -- 25 June 2015

Hi Pamela: There could be several reasons for the nesting failure and disappearance of the mate. One, a predator attacked the nest and possibly scared the mate and it took off, or it was also ...

Introducing a new swan -- David -- 24 June 2015

I work for a hospital in Florida that for the past four years; had a pair of what we thought were two female mute swans. We lost one to a predator 2 months ago so we are looking for a new companion ...

Re: Introducing a new swan -- The Regal Swan -- 25 June 2015

Hi David: Please send your contact info to this post. It will NOT be made public and the webmaster can get us your contact number so that we can discuss your swan and its habitat. We are located in ...

Mother Swan Killing Cygnets -- Valerie -- 23 June 2015

Hello, in following along with Anne's question about a mother trumpeter swan killing her cygnets, around June 5th or 6th, 2015 our trumpeter swans proudly paraded around with their six (6) cygnets. ...

Re: Mother Swan Killing Cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 23 June 2015

Hi Valerie If the cygnets were not exhibiting illness until a later time, that would be the reason that the parents may have killed them at a later date. But, that would mean someone would have had ...

Swans and ducks on the same island for nesting? -- Paul -- 23 June 2015

will they share the same island for nesting

Re: Swans and ducks on the same island for nesting? -- The Regal Swan -- 23 June 2015

Hi Paul: Usually, they will share the same island, but separate sides or at least a significant area away from the actual nesting sites of the other birds. Again, the ability to get along with other ...

Black and white swans in the same pond? -- Paul -- 23 June 2015

black and white swans are they compatible to share same pond?

Re: Black and white swans in the same pond? -- The Regal Swan -- 23 June 2015

Hi Paul Yes, these species will do well, however, around mating season, they both may get testy. The Black Swans are usually a little more defensive at that time, but we have also seen Black Swans ...

Care of trumpeter cygnets due July 11 2015 -- Janet -- 22 June 2015

We bought this pair seven years ago and they finally laid eggs on their nest on the island.We cannot get to the island on this three acre lake called Star Lake in Hoover, Alabama. I got the township ...

Re: Care of trumpeter cygnets due July 11 2015 -- The Regal Swan -- 23 June 2015

Hi Janet The parents will take the cygnets onto the pond 24 hours after hatching. The parents will stir up aquatic vegetation for them, show the cygnets how to find food and will eventually bring ...

White swans won't lay eggs -- Cheryl -- 22 June 2015

i have a pair of white swans about 3 ans 1/2 years old. They have never laid eggs. They have a pond with large fenced in area to roam. Why won 't they lay eggs.

Re: White swans won't lay eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 22 June 2015

Hi Cheryl: Have you ever had the swans sexed? More than likely they are both male swans. They will mate, bond and nest, but obviously not lay eggs. You will need to take the swans to an avian (bird) ...

Swans off nest -- Brenda -- 22 June 2015

We have a pond and wetlands area where a pair of mute swans built a nest and laid 4 eggs of which only one survived and is still in the nest. Today's the first day that neither swan has spent any ...

Re: Swans off nest -- The Regal Swan -- 22 June 2015

Hi Brenda If the swans are no longer on the nest or nearby, it means that the remaining eggs were not viable or the cygnets have already hatched and the parents are moving the young birds so that ...

Mother swan killing cygnets -- Anne -- 19 June 2015

Hello someone witnessed a mother Trumpeter swan killing a cygnet, the cygnets are gray and do not appear to be leucistic. So far 2 cygnets are dead, no one witnessed the mother killing the first ...

Re: Mother swan killing cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 19 June 2015

Hi Anne The mother swan knows something is wrong and will try to put the cygnet out of its misery. As difficult as this is to watch, it is nature. Nature will not allow something sick or injured to ...

Mute swan male leaves after babies hatch -- Diane -- 18 June 2015

We have mute swans. A week or so after babies hatched the male is gone. Same thing happened last year. Does the male leave?

Re: Mute swan male leaves after babies hatch -- The Regal Swan -- 18 June 2015

Hi Diane This behavior is the norm for some male swans as it can be an individual attribute. We have seen the exact behavior in a few swans we were researching. Usually, not always, but usually the ...

Mute Swan Agression -- Pam -- 17 June 2015

We have a pair of mute swans on the lake with cygnets. The male is trying to kill the female. Why would he do that? Can we do anything?

Re: Mute Swan Agression -- The Regal Swan -- 17 June 2015

Hi Pam Are you absolutely sure they are fighting and not trying to mate? At this time of the year, hormone levels are rampant. The male will try to get on top of the female and will hold her head ...

Cygnet falling over backwards -- Lisa -- 17 June 2015

We have 3 black cygnet swans they are about 3 weeks old. One of the cygnet we keep finding on it's back and is unable to get up. The other 2 are having no issues. We brought the swan in the house as ...

Re: Cygnet falling over backwards -- The Regal Swan -- 17 June 2015

Hi Lisa Unfortunately, this cygnet has some type of neurological compromise. If it has aspergillosis, it will be dead in hours. Your best bet is to get it to a vet and have it put out of its misery. ...

Two Mute Swans Appear Out of Nowhere! -- Alyce -- 15 June 2015

Hi. We live in a residential/rural area in NJ on a mid size lake. We love watching the many birds and fowl that visit the lake and those that live here. Today we came home from work to find 2 Mute ...

Re: Two Mute Swans Appear Out of Nowhere! -- The Regal Swan -- 16 June 2015

Hi Alycia They are probably wild swans which someone was feeding during your harsh winter. If they are the only swans in your area and they continue to feed with your geese, they will more than ...

wild swans chicks found on the side of the road -- Tom -- 15 June 2015

Hi. I found three wild swan cygnets. On the side of a rural road with no adults present. I live in a northern suburb of Minneapolis Minnesota. Can I keep them is it illegal? Thanks

Re: wild swans chicks found on the side of the road -- The Regal Swan -- 16 June 2015

Hi Tom It totally depends on the species. If they are Trumpeter Swans, you need a federal license. If they are Mute Swans your state DNR officials will gladly see them dead as the and other states ...

Attack !! -- Patricia -- 15 June 2015

Hi there, I am in Cardiff the capital city of Wales here in the UK .. we have a lovely lake in the city called Roath Park Lake. This morning we noticed a swan (with 3 sygnets) being circled by ...

Re: Attack !! -- The Regal Swan -- 15 June 2015

Hi Patricia: The mother swan's behavior seems to be indicative that there was a turtle or mink in the water and she was chasing it from the area and her cygnets. If it was a small mink or turtle, the ...

Companion for our Trumpeter Swan? -- Alane -- 15 June 2015

Hi, Several years ago we lost a swan and never knew what caused it to die. The other swan has lived and we now would like to get another one for companionship. This one is somewhere around 10 yrs. ...

Re: Companion for our Trumpeter Swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 June 2015

Hi Alane: It appears that your friend now thinks you are a swan and has imprinted on you for companionship. Normally, we would not suggest this imprinting, but it seems to have occurred after the ...

Is it illegal to feed mute swans in NJ? -- Kate -- 13 June 2015

Is it illegal to feed mute swans in New Jersey? I started feeding a family after my neighbor just stopped all of a sudden. It was winter, the Creek was frozen so I started to feed them poultry ...

Re: Is it illegal to feed mute swans in NJ? -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2015

Hi Kate New Jersey is another state in which the NJ wildlife officials kill the Mute Swans, falsely stating they are invasive, aggressive and detrimental to the environment. This misrepresentation ...

Swan alone in the same spot all day and evening -- John -- 12 June 2015

I moved into a new condo on a fresh water lake in southwest Florida on April 1st of this year. I immediately noticed a swan in the water across the lake the day I moved in. Since that day the swan ...

Re: Swan alone in the same spot all day and evening -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2015

Hi John There are a couple of possibilities. One would be that this particular part of the pond is free from predators and is basically a safe area with good food, shelter, bathing, preening and ...

2 male trumpeters fighting. What do I do? -- John -- 12 June 2015

What do i do? They're going to kill each other!

Re: 2 male trumpeters fighting. What do I do? -- The Regal Swan -- 12 June 2015

Hi John Are these captive or wild swans? Do they have a family or are these the only 2 swans on the pond? If they are wild swans, there isn't much you can do as they will have to work it out. If they ...

Swan with broken wing -- Leslie -- 11 June 2015

Hello, Each morning we see a group of four swans that are always together. Yesterday and today I noticed one swan sitting in shore. She dies get into the water to look for food but she or he is all ...

Re: Swan with broken wing -- The Regal Swan -- 12 June 2015

Hi Leslie The swan could have a broken wing or a condition known as angel wing caused by too much protein in the diet or a birth defect. We are in agreement that something needs to be done for the ...

Swans on Hamilton Lake, Indiana -- Patricia -- 11 June 2015

A friend who lives on Hamilton Lake, in Hamilton, Indiana just told me that they have been culling mute swans. Their reasoning is that there is no way to control increasing numbers of these swans ...

Re: Swans on Hamilton Lake, Indiana -- The Regal Swan -- 12 June 2015

Hi Patricia Yes, these are the usual lies that the state and federal wildlife officials have been providing to the public so there will be no questions asked. However, the bottom line is that your ...

Re: Swans on Hamilton Lake, Indiana -- Patricia -- 12 June 2015

Do you know or are you aware of any individual or group in Indiana (specifically near Hamilton Lake, Hamilton, Indiana) that would help with the Mute swan situation? Help, meaning to actually go in ...

One Swan Egg Left -- Lauren -- 11 June 2015

There's a swan nest in our back yard. The swans laid 7 eggs. 5 Eggs hatched within 2 days. 1 egg disappeared. Do parents discard bad eggs? And really my questions is, its been 4 days since the last ...

Re: One Swan Egg Left -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2015

Hi Lauren: Yes, swans will discard bad eggs and will stop sitting once they know that the eggs are not viable. As long as she is sitting on the egg, it could hatch. However, if she leaves the nest ...

Family of mute swans on our grass, won't let our dogs out -- Paula -- 11 June 2015

I have a family of mute swans (mom, dad, and nearly grown 6 offspring) They hang out in our yard all day, the grass is a mass of droppings and they won't let our dogs out (they are leashed). Love ...

Re: Family of mute swans on our grass, won -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2015

Hi Paula: The swans feel extremely safe and comfortable in your back yard. There are no domesticated or wild predators (dogs, cats, coyotes, etc.). So, of course they are going to sun themselves in ...

Re: Family of mute swans on our grass... -- Paula -- 12 June 2015

Thank you! We spent 50 minutes hosing down swan poo from the lawn tonight so the swans will be happy tomorrow that it is nice and clean for them! They are safe with us.

Re: Family of mute swans on our grass... -- The Regal Swan -- 12 June 2015

Hi Paula You are very welcome. We are glad you are going to let the swan family stay and keep them safe. Thank you for your efforts. The Regal Swan

Swan eggs or geese eggs? -- Lisa -- 11 June 2015

How do I know that I have swan eggs and not geese eggs?

Re: Swan eggs or geese eggs? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2015

Hi Lisa There should be a color difference and definitely a size difference. If the eggs are bigger than the palm of your hand, almost bigger than your palm from the bottom to the tip of your ...

Swan knocks at our door, follow us: Normal behavior? -- Jessica -- 11 June 2015

Hello, I live in GA and we have a mute swan in the lake outback. He or she has been there for at least four years. He recently started coming up to our home. He lays on the porch knocks at my door. ...

Re: Swan knocks at our door, follow us: Normal behavior? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2015

Hi Jessica: Have you always lived near the pond? Have you or anyone else been feeding or taking care of him? If so, he may be confused as to where the person lives and your house is the closest so he ...

Can we buy a male swan? -- Conor -- 10 June 2015

If we already have a female swan, Can we buy a male that will get along with the existing female?

Re: Can we buy a male swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 10 June 2015

Hi Conor: There are many factors to this question. How old is the female, what happened to her male mate, are you absolutely sure that the bird is a female (did you do DNA Sequencing-the only ...

WE NEED YOUR HELP!!!! Re: bill to prevent the NY DEC from killing and mutilating wild Mute Swans -- The Regal Swan® Foundation -- 10 June 2015

WE NEED YOUR HELP! For the second time in two years, the NY Senate and Assembly have passed a bill to prevent the NY DEC from killing and mutilating wild Mute Swans. Twice NY citizens have stated ...

At what age will sawns be able to eat lettuce? -- Cindy -- 9 June 2015

Hi, I'm in Hamilton, Ontario Canada and we have a pair of mute swans who live in a shallow part of the harbour. Mama had her babies a couple of weeks ago (7 of them!) And by all accounts they are ...

Re: At what age will sawns be able to eat lettuce? -- The Regal Swan -- 9 June 2015

Hi Cindy: Lettuce is an acquired taste for many swans. They can eat it right away as they eat aquatic vegetation within 24 hours after being hatched. You must need to make sure that it is finely ...

Mother swan on nest for 30 days -- Diane -- 9 June 2015

Hello, We have a mother swan that had been in the nest for about thirty days, nothing yet. All the other swans have had their babies except get. Do you think something is wrong? Canadian geese also ...

Re: Mother swan on nest for 30 days -- The Regal Swan -- 9 June 2015

Hi Diane: We have birds that have hatched a week ago, some have just hatched and some are now fledging. So, our timeline is not her timeline. She will start incubating the eggs when the last egg is ...

Mother swan suddenly disappeared -- Dan -- 9 June 2015

Hi - I live on a small lake in southeast Michigan. Our lake has a pair of resident swans that mate each year and have a brood of signets each spring. That happened this year. After about two weeks of ...

Re: Mother swan suddenly disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 9 June 2015

Hi Dan If you live in Michigan and nearby states, your DNR officials are killing the Mute Swans under the false guise of their being nonnative, aggressive and invasive. All which are blatant ...

Swan sounds -- Jim -- 8 June 2015

I would like to add recorded sounds to my swan decoys. What sound do they make to scare away geese?? Thanks,

Re: Swan sounds -- The Regal Swan -- 9 June 2015

Hi Jim You would first need to find out what species of swan lives in your area. There are 7 species and one subspecies found though out the world. In North America there are three species: ...

Swan's wing has no feathers (angel wing), swan is alone, won't eat healthy food -- PRISCILLA -- 8 June 2015

HI I live on the beginning of Cape Cod. I live on the water. Last year 2014 I had a pair of swans that was always together. I noticed his wing with no feathers I looked it up and found out he has ...

Re: Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 8 June 2015

Hi Priscilla Bread won't hurt the swan, but it holds no nutritional value. The reason that the swan has angel wing is that it is either a birth defect or it had too much protein in its diet. Too much ...

Swans have not returned -- Kaitln -- 6 June 2015

Hi, we live on a cranberry bog reservoir that is quite marsh-like in new england. For the past 5 or so years the same swans have been returning each year. They typically stay for most of the winter ...

Re: Swans have not returned -- The Regal Swan -- 6 June 2015

Hi Kaitln It is difficult to even begin surmising whether the swans may return. There are many factors than that they just did not make it through the winter. Usually, swans will return to the same ...

Re: Swans have not returned -- Kaitlin -- 5 December 2015

Hi I just wanted to give an update about these missing swans. They just came back at the end of november! There were feathers all over the pond. I was very surprised to see them. They must've nested ...

Re: Swans have not returned -- The Regal Swan -- 5 December 2015

Hi Kaitlin Good to know the swans have returned. They may actually be the parents chasing the smaller (younger) swans to reclaim their habitat. The Regal Swan

mom swan drowns baby -- mary -- 5 June 2015

hi, i saw a mother swam today trying to drown her baby... i m traumatized.. it lasted at least 10 minutes, she was trapping the baby by his neck and putting him under water, coming back to surface , ...

Re: mom swan drowns baby -- The Regals Swan -- 6 June 2015

Hi Mary: As traumatic as this might be, it is nature. All wildlife species will kill their young in order to put them out of their misery if there is something wrong with the offspring. Better to ...

Regarding flying swans that come to the fields and crush the weak plants -- Venkateswara -- 5 June 2015

hi, This is venkat, I am son of farmer. In our agricultural fields when we plant paddy i.e rice grains, aT the starting stage we need to be in the fields for more than 20 days throught the day ...

Re: Regarding flying swans that come to the fields and crush the weak plants -- The Regals Swan -- 6 June 2015

Hi Venkat The only guaranteed way of stopping the swans from accessing your rice is to use bird netting. You will need to erect 10 foot high poles (think of electrical poles or logs) and then string ...

Swans in winter -- Rebecca -- 4 June 2015

We live in central Illinois and have a swan on our lake who is outside all winter. Is that normal?

Re: Swans in winter -- The Regal Swan -- 4 June 2015

Hi Rebecca Is this a captive swan (pinioned and cannot fly) or a wild swan (capable of leaving and returning at will)? If it is a captive swan, then this is probably why you are seeing it all winter ...

Cygnets not seen for a while -- Chris -- 3 June 2015

Hi, Just after some advice. We have 2 adult swams that have recently (within last 4 weeks) hatched 5 cygnets. Usually you can see them, adults and cygnets, all together on the dock. However, over the ...

Re: Cygnets not seen for a while -- The Regal Swan -- 3 June 2015

Hi Chris No, at this young of an age, the cygnets are usually with or at least in the very immediate area of the parents. If you do not see them in a couple of days, it is safe to assume they did not ...

Cygnet on the side of the road -- Greg -- 3 June 2015

I was driving today and saw what I thought was a baby goose on the side of the rd. I quickly turned my truck around picked the animal up off the st then began to look for it's parents. It turns out ...

Re: Cygnet on the side of the road -- The Regal Swan -- 3 June 2015

Hi Greg If the cygnet can fly, and these are not his parents or the parents are telling him to get lost, he should be fine. If he is not old enough to fly and these are his parents, he should be ...

How much does it cost for a mute swan -- Tim -- 31 May 2015

I was wondering how much does it cost to purchase a mating pair of mute swans. Also can it be a viable source of income to collect hatchlings from your pair, have their wings clipped and sold for a ...

Re: How much does it cost for a mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 1 June 2015

Hi Tim: Price range can be from $300 a pair to $1500 per pair depending on the seller. It would not be a viable choice of income due to the U.S. Wildlife Services and other state wildlife agencies ...

Swan eggs in TWO nests -- David -- 1 June 2015

Hi, I recently discovered the swans by our ponds had two eggs on a nest. A day later I found one egg a distance for the nest (a swan could not have carried it that far), and the other egg had gone. I ...

Re: Swan eggs in TWO nests -- The Regal Swan -- 1 June 2015

Hi David: This is indeed strange. We have never heard about this type of situation. There are several possibilities. One, a human is moving the eggs, the swans are juveniles and have no idea what ...

Re: Swan eggs in TWO nests -- David -- 2 June 2015

Hi, Thanks for your ideas on this puzzle. But No- they are a male and female - they have been in the area for over 8 years, with many successful breedings, and there are NO other swans around. I know ...

Re: Swan eggs in TWO nests -- The Regal Swan -- 2 June 2015

Hi David Yes, this makes more sense, especially if the nest was disturbed or a predator in the area. That would be great if you could let us know how this works out. The Regal Swan

Mute baby swan born this week won't stay with mother -- Diane -- 30 May 2015

There are six babies. They were all fine until today. The one gay one would not stay with the mother. Do you know why? We finally caught it and put it in the house because we have foxes and cats ...

Re: Mute baby swan born this week won -- Nancy Faller -- 10 June 2015

I live in NC. I have a pair of swans and this happened with one of ours a couple of years ago. We raised the baby successfully and he turned out to be just fine when he reached adulthood (though he ...

Re: Mute baby swan born this week won't stay with mother -- The Regal Swan -- 30 May 2015

Hi Diane If there is something wrong with the cygnet, the mother will abandon it. Nature will sacrifice one for the rest of the family/flock. If it was a runt, it could not keep up, again the mother ...

4mth old swan being kicked out of family -- Doris -- 30 May 2015

Hello I live on the water, marsh area. I have swans mate and nest close by me over the past 20 yrs... however this past summer 2014 the parents that had babies took care, after a time one of the ...

Re: 4mth old swan being kicked out of family -- The Regal Swan -- 30 May 2015

Hi Doris If the parents kicked him out prior to 6 months, then there may have been something wrong with him. If an illness was the cause, the parents did not want the disease to spread to the rest of ...

Assisting egg to hatch -- Fran -- 30 May 2015

Hi, I’m currently volunteering at a wildlife rehab centre in Scotland. Yesterday some of the staff went on a rescue of a family of swans - mum and half a dozen newly hatched cygnets. Included in the ...

Can a baby swan with one leg live? -- Stephen -- 29 May 2015

Hello, I recently encountered the sight of 5 baby swans in my pond and noticed that one of the babies had a problem with its right leg. Soon after I watched the swans the one baby swan alone to the ...

Re: Can a baby swan with one leg live? -- George -- 6 June 2015

I have a summer home in NE Indiana, have been watching a pair of mute swans raise their young for the last 6 yrs. three years ago one of the cygnets had a mangled foot. the poor thing was able to ...

Re: Can a baby swan with one leg live? -- The Regal Swan -- 29 May 2015

Hi Stephen If the cygnet cannot climb in and out of the water, it is going to make it extremely difficult to survive. It will not be able to escape a predator or reach dry land to dry out and preen. ...

Swan mate's death -- Nancy -- 29 May 2015

I work where the management has had a pair of swans at the pond. Last weekend one of my coworkers was walking and notice there was blood on the female swan. He called management. They had her taken ...

Re: Swan mate -- The Regal Swan -- 29 May 2015

Hi Nancy: Virginia is a state that mandates that swans be euthanized or not treated because they deem them as a invasive species, which they are not and you can see what is happening in New York ...

Turtle bit off foot of baby swan -- Concerned -- 28 May 2015

We have baby swan in our small lake that cannot get out of the water because a turtle bit off his foot. Will he survive if he cannot get on land

Re: Turtle bit off foot of baby swan -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2015

Hi If the cygnet canot get out of the water onto the bank, then this is a major issue as it will likely drown or be eaten by a predator such as egret, hawk, owl, fish and turtles. We could not see ...

Pair bonding and water/out of water -- Kate -- 27 May 2015

1. My friend had a pair of swans and the female died about 10 years ago. The male has never found new partner. Is this because of his commitment to new swan or because none have happened by? If we ...

Re: Pair bonding and water/out of water -- The Regal Swan -- 27 May 2015

Hi Kate: Most males do not re-pair once their mate dies. With your swan being this old, it would not be practical to try and find him a mate. Even if he bonded, it is highly unlikely that he will ...

Abandoned nesting female -- Carolyn -- 27 May 2015

We have two sets, east and west. Mr West is very aggressive and has finally after several fights driven the east end male away leaving the female on her nest with five eggs under her. Meanwhile the ...

Re: Abandoned nesting female -- The Regal Swan -- 27 May 2015

Hi Carolyn: It is possible, but highly unlikely that a new male would suddenly come in and help a female swan sit on eggs produced by another male. Bonding would need to occur for this to happen and ...

Rose colored swans -- John -- 26 May 2015

What is the meaning of the term, "rose colored swans" ?

Re: Rose colored swans -- The Regal Swan -- 27 May 2015

Hi John: We have never heard this expression, so there are two possibilities that we could possibly render as a hypothesis: First, there is no such thing scientifically known as a Royal or Polish ...

Male swan died, female has paired up with other female -- Cheryl -- 26 May 2015

Hello, A coyote killed our male swan, while defending the female and her eggs. She left with her life, and one egg was left, which is gone. She mourned for 2 weeks, without coming for food etc. She ...

Re: Male swan died, female has paired up with other female -- Cheryl -- 13 June 2015

Thank you for your response. The reason I think the other swan is a female is it doesn't even have a knob on it's head. I had read that the males is larger than the females and that held true for the ...

Re: Male swan died, female has paired up with other female -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2015

Hi Cheryl Usually, the larger the knob, the more probable that the swan may be a male. However, this is not a guaranteed way of determining gender. We have seen female swans with males that have ...

Re: Male swan died, female has paired up with other female -- The Regal Swan -- 26 May 2015

Hi Cheryl Yes, female swans will pair with females and males with males if the opposite gender is not available. The females will lay eggs, but obviously, they will be infertile. They will sit on the ...

Mute swan breeding -- Karen -- 25 May 2015

How often do the mute swans have to breed for a cluster of eggs?

Re: Mute swan breeding -- The Regal Swan -- 26 May 2015

Hi Karen Mute Swans will mate approximately every day for a week during the breeding season with eggs produced every other day until the full clutch is reduced. Mute Swans mate throughout the year. ...

Male Swan and babies -- Sherry -- 25 May 2015

Hello, my boyfriend's father has a set of swans. My first question is, every year they have babies and every year none survive more than a week or 2. We are assuming that natural predators get them, ...

Re: Male Swan and babies -- The Regal Swan -- 25 May 2015

Hi Sherry Turtles, egrets, owls, hawks, largemouth bass and any number of other predators can kill the young cygnets as well as disease, toxins, parasites, etc. If the male is walking with a balance ...

Swan Moving Side to Side -- Crystal -- 24 May 2015

Hello! Two swans which live in a lake near me have recently had 8 lovely babies! While taking photographs of them I noticed that one swan, what I think is the mother, started moving from side to ...

Re: Swan Moving Side to Side -- The Regal Swan -- 24 May 2015

Hi Crystal The parents will find a food source and will tread water above the aquatic vegetation. Then, they will move their feet rapidly under water bringing the food to the surface for the cygnets ...

Swans moved in -- Lisa -- 24 May 2015

Hello This year my husband built a little ladder from the riverside on to our garden and we now have mum n dad and 7 cygnets come and go as they please (1 is white). They now appear to have moved in, ...

Re: Swans moved in -- The Regal Swan -- 24 May 2015

Hi Lisa It seems that they are pretty happy with their habitat. You just need to ensure that the ladder is not slippery or too steep as this can be deadly when waterfowl injure their legs or feet. ...

Re: Swans moved in -- Lisa -- 25 May 2015

Hello again That is wonderful news, thank you. The ladder is more like a very small staircase. My husband is an engineer so probably won't be long before he builds a stair lift! Thanks again Lisa

Re: Swans moved in -- The Regal Swan -- 25 May 2015

Excellent. The Regal Swan

Re: Swans moved in -- Lisa -- 30 May 2015

Just sending a picture, thought you might like to see them. Many thanks Lisa

Re: Swans moved in -- The Regal Swan -- 30 May 2015

Hi Lisa Absolutely gorgeous photo. The steps are great. As the cygnets get older, they won't need the step. In about 3 months you may have to remove the steps. Until that time, wonderful idea. The ...

Re: Swans moved in - update -- Lisa -- 4 August 2015

Hi there, the cygnets are much bigger and so are our steps. Thought you might like to see how they are doing now.

Re: Swans moved in - update -- The Regal Swan -- 4 August 2015

Hi Lisa Absolutely beautiful. You all did a great job with the steps and the cygnets. Now, you have steps for future generations that you can enjoy. The Regal Swan

Swan Eggs -- Jackie -- 23 May 2015

We just found two swan eggs in our cold pond, do you think they are still good or should we throw them away?

Re: Swan Eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 23 May 2015

Hi Jackie If you found the eggs in a cold pond, they were probably non viable and the swans discarded them or flooding/predators removed them from the nest. In all the above scenarios, the eggs will ...

Swans rebuild nests with 4 week old cignets? -- H S A -- 20 May 2015

Hi, what a great forum! I live on a culdesac surrounded by a lake and our neighborhood has a pair of swans that have been successfully rearing 3-5 cignets per year for a number of years. This year ...

Re: Swans rebuild nests with 4 week old cignets? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 May 2015

Hi No, the swans are not building a new nest, just arranging some vegetation on the sand so that the young cygnets can dry out and rest. It would be best if you could protect them from the dogs as ...

We want a pair of swans -- Davideen -- 18 May 2015

We live in a condo which has a man made lake. The lake is about 1 mile around. we are located in Palm Beach Gardens Florida USA where the tempeture is between 70 and 90 all year long. How do we take ...

Re: We want a pair of swans -- The Regal Swan -- 19 May 2015

Hi Davideen There are several issues that must be addressed prior to getting swans. They are: 1. Do you have someone that will be responsible for the daily upkeep of the swans, feeding, ensuring ...

Wing feathers -- Alan -- 17 May 2015

Hi there We have a swan where i'm staying that is getting very ragged end feathers on one wing. It seems unable to fold it's wing properly. Any ideas ? Regards Alan

Re: Wing feathers -- The Regal Swan -- 17 May 2015

Hi Alan: If the swan is able to fly, then there is a possibility that the swan's wing is injured or it got into some substance that has caused the bird to keep its feathers healthy. The swan needs to ...

Lonely Swan -- CJ -- 16 May 2015

We have a pond on our property, and this is the first year we have had a swan hang out for the spring. There is only one though....I was wondering if it may come back next year with a partner or why ...

Re: Lonely Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 17 May 2015

Hi CJ This may be a juvenile swan from this year looking to make itself a new habitat. If it likes your area and finds a mate, there is a good possibility it will stay as long as it is safe and ...

Two cygnets separated from their parents -- Peg -- 16 May 2015

We were kayaking in our lake by our house and we came up to mom and dad swans and cygnets, I think they were a day or two old. They were startled by us and the babies scattered about and were ...

Re: Two cygnets separated from their parents -- The Regal Swan -- 16 May 2015

Hi Peg As long as the parents do not go too far out of range, they should go back to find the other cygnets, especially if they hear the young swans crying. If you find the cygnets, you might try to ...

Winter care for a captive mute swan -- Debbie -- 14 May 2015

Hello, We have a pet mute swan in our condo development. His pond is very large with a large fountain in the center. He never flys out of it so he may be pinioned. He is fed bird food daily. The ...

Re: Winter care for a captive mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 15 May 2015

Hi Debbie There are several factors regarding winter weather. The most important two are freezing of the pond and no shelter so the swan cannot get dry and stay warm. The fountain/aerator should keep ...

Re: Winter care for a captive mute swan -- Debbie -- 24 May 2015

Thank you very much. I will have a local landscaping company construct something with tall brush and soil to give him access to land and also a shelter for the winter.

Re: Winter care for a captive mute swan -- The Regal Swan -- 25 May 2015

Hi Debbie: This would be great. Just ensure that no predators can access the swans in the shrubbery. If the brush can be placed near the pond so that the bird can immediately get into the water, that ...

My pair of mute swans ready to have babies again -- Katherine -- 14 May 2015

Hello, it has been a year since we had three baby cygnets. They did not survive. We left them with their parents last year and the parents were doing a really good job. I took them to get pinioned ...

Re: My pair of mute swans ready to have babies again -- The Regal Swan -- 14 May 2015

Hi Katherine We would strongly recommend that you Do Not take the cygnets from the parents. As much as there are natural events that can kill the young cygnets, there are just as many things that can ...

Swan behaviour -- Karen -- 13 May 2015

Hi, I live in Inverness, Scotland. While walking by the Caledonaian Canal this morning we saw 3 white, looked like fully grown, swans together. Further up the canal, a good bit, we saw another white ...

Re: Swan behaviour -- The Regal Swan -- 13 May 2015

Hi Karen: What you are describing is a common occurrence during this time of year which is the nesting/mating season for swans. The lone swan is probably a young juvenile male that is just learning ...

Leg band size -- Jack -- 11 May 2015

What size bands are required for mute swans. I have access to 11/16 & 3/4 inch bands with id numbers. Larger than that I can only find split bands with no numbers.

Re: Leg band size -- The Regal Swan -- 12 May 2015

Hi Jack You will need to contact Bob Knox at Knox Swan and Dog. 847-875-3947...He will have this information. We do not use leg bands for several reasons, they can get caught on something and the ...

Swans hiding while incubating -- Robin -- 10 May 2015

There are 12 or more swans in St. Albans lake Hertfordshire. Now (May) I'm only seeing 3 to 4. One adult and two young. Until recently there where at lest 6 young. My question. Are they in hiding ...

Re: Swans hiding while incubating -- The Regal Swan -- 10 May 2015

Hi Robin Most swans are sitting on nests or staying nearby the nest with their new hatchlings. It is for this reason that you may not be seeing as many swans in the area as well as that some may have ...

Swan egg laying in cold water -- Jo -- 7 May 2015

I found a swans egg in the river Today. it was cold. Is there any chance that the egg is alive?

Re: Swan egg laying in cold water -- The Regal Swan -- 7 May 2015

Hi Jo If the egg is cold and has been in the water for any sign amount of time, it is non viable. Flooding and predators can cause the eggs to fall in the water. Even the swan parents will dump bad ...

Swan egg out of the nest -- Pam -- 7 May 2015

A swan is nesting in a nearby pond. One of her eggs is lying on the grass beside her nest, not underneath her. Will she have kicked it out, or has it just slipped?

Re: Swan egg out of the nest -- The Regal Swan -- 7 May 2015

Hi Pam Either one of these scenarios is plausible. No matter the cause, if the egg has sat too long out from under the mother, it is probably not viable. You could try to place it back in the nest ...

Death of a Swan -- William -- 6 May 2015

With the recent death of the ballerina Maya Plistekaya; there is backdrop in her dying swan solo, the swan floats on the lake after he's passed away. Can this be?

May apple leaves cause a 3 week old swan's death? -- Kathleen -- 5 May 2015

My two three week old australian Black swans died after eating about a 3 inch piece of may apple leaf each. Is that what most likely harmed them, or should I look further for some other cause? Thank ...

Re: May apple leaves cause a 3 week old swan -- The Regal Swan -- 6 May 2015

Hi Kathleen There are many reasons for the death of such young swans including, disease, infection, poison, injury etc. However, if you saw the cygnets eat the May Apple leaf and then they became ...

Eggs hatching at different intervals -- Debra -- 5 May 2015

I have been watching a nest on a live webcam. One egg hatched last Friday. It's 4 days later and the other 5 eggs have not hatched...is this common?

Re: Eggs hatching at different intervals -- The Regal Swan -- 5 May 2015

Hi Debra: Normally, the eggs will hatch every day or every other day after the first egg hatches. If the parents are still sitting on the nest, then they know something that we don't. If the parents ...

Safe shrubs for the swans -- Cindy -- 5 May 2015

Hi. First I would like to thank you for being there to answer questions for us. The eggs I previously asked you about in the barn were indeed fertelized We recently hatched 2 healthy mute swans in ...

Re: Safe shrubs for the swans -- The Regal Swan -- 5 May 2015

Hi Cindy: Great news about the eggs hatching. We are assuming that Mom and Dad are with the young swans. If so, the adult birds will teach the young what they can and cannot eat. Boxwood should be ...

Found an egg -- Cara -- 4 May 2015

We have found, what we believe to be a swan egg in the middle of our field today- there are no swans around so didn't know what to do with it or how it got there? Can I assume it's not viable?

Re: Found an egg -- The Regal Swan -- 5 May 2015

Hi Cara If there are no swans, then the egg is non viable. If the mother swan stays off the egg for any significant amount of time, the egg will not survive. The Regal Swan

Young swan appearance on our small lake -- Chris -- 4 May 2015

Hello there. We have a small lake/large pond at home in North Cumbria. We have many visiting and nesting ducks as well as a pair of wild nesting Canada geese, suddenly two weeks ago a white and ...

Re: Young swan appearance on our small lake -- The Regal Swan -- 4 May 2015

Hi Chris This is probably a young juvenile who was told get lost by the parents due to the upcoming mating/nesting season. The young swan may be looking for a new territory and your feeding it is ...

We are looking for swans on the East Coast -- Robert -- 3 May 2015

We are looking for a pair of swans to replace two that recently passed away. That were at. Mt A in sackville. N. B. Just wondering if you know of a farm in east coast area that could sell us two. ...

Re: We are looking for swans on the East Coast -- The Regal Swan -- 3 May 2015

Hi Please contact Bob Knox. He will be able to give you information. His number is 847-875-3947. The Regal Swan

Rising river and nesting swan -- Michael -- 2 May 2015

Hi, There is a nesting swan on a small mid river island near us. I think there may be at least a week or more to go to hatching. The weather forecast for the next few days is for heavy rain and my ...

Re: Rising river and nesting swan -- The Regal Swan -- 2 May 2015

Hi Michael If the nest floods, it will be bad luck. We don't think it will flood that high. However, you might want to contact Wendy Hermon, Swan Support at 07968868172. She will be able to advise ...

Swan, maybe broken leg -- Pia -- 30 April 2015

Dear Specialist I visit a nearby bog very often. There's a swan with difficulties leaning on his foot. It has a noticeable limp and has had it for perhaps a month. Is the leg broken or it it ...

Re: Swan, maybe broken leg -- The Regal Swan -- 30 April 2015

Hi Pia We are in agreement with you. If the swan has a limp, but can still get around, is eating and has a mate, we would leave it alone. If it gets to the point where movement is so difficult that ...

Dead swan in river -- m.butler -- 30 April 2015

dead swan in river don aberdeen and should it be reported to rspb.

Re: Dead swan in river -- The Regal Swan -- 30 April 2015

Hi Yes, please contact the proper authorities. The Regal Swan

Deterrent plants for black swans -- Sharon -- 28 April 2015

My neighbour and I share a pond between our homes. They own a gorgeous black swan who decided to eat my small plants along the fence bordering the pond on my side. What can I plant that will act as a ...

Re: Deterrent plants for black swans -- The Regal Swan -- 30 April 2015

Hi Sharon Unfortunately, there are no deterrent plants. In fact, many plants can be poisonous to the swans. So, you need to probably find some type of barrier so the swans cannot reach beyond 3-4 ...

Finding a vet to pinion cygnets -- Carol -- 27 April 2015

Hi-Our Home Owners Association in Wichita Kansas has a lovely pair of mute swans. They have been with us for many years and have had many clutches of cygnets, but none survived until last year. We ...

Re: Finding a vet to pinion cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 27 April 2015

Hi Carol: Yes, pinioning must be done between 1-3 weeks of age, no later as it becomes very difficult on the birds, especially when they have to have anesthesia for the procedure after 3 weeks of ...

Eggs and snow -- Sarah -- 26 April 2015

There is a swan nesting near my house, she has at least 6 eggs and they still have around 4 weeks before they're due to hatch. We've had unseasonably hot weather for the past few weeks but now we ...

Re: Eggs and snow -- The Regal Swan -- 26 April 2015

Hi Sarah There are never any guarantees in extreme weather swings. But, as long as the mother swan is still sitting on the eggs and caring for them, their chances of survival increase. There is ...

Black swan with fishing line wrapped around its leg -- Barbara -- 26 April 2015

At Kenner City Park in Kenner, Louisiana, there is a black swan with fishing line wrapped so tightly around its right leg that it is unable to use the leg. I called a wildlife rehabilitator who told ...

Re: Black swan with fishing line wrapped around its leg -- The Regal Swan -- 26 April 2015

Barbara, You need to place the blanket over the swan and try to capture it. Try to be as gentle as possible and make sure you don't block it's breathing. Get it to the rehabber ASAP. If you do not ...

Sick Male Black Swan -- Jennifer -- 24 April 2015

Hello, I was wondering if you could help narrow down what may be wrong with my male Swan. He is with his mate and 4 cygnets and normally harasses me if I'm too close to the babies. I noticed him not ...

Re: Sick Male Black Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 25 April 2015

Hi Jennifer Not sure where you are located in Florida. If you can send the webmaster of this site an email with your location, we will try to get you a name of a veterinarian that knows about ...

Male swan has built his own nest away from the female's nest -- Lisa -- 24 April 2015

Hi there A pair of swans have built a nest and laid their eggs. Earlier this week the male swan built his own nest quite a way away from the female swan and now sleeps on this. WHY? They have nested ...

Re: Male swan has built his own nest away from the female -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2015

Hi Lisa: We have seen this behavior before, not often, but it does occur. We can only surmise why this occurs, but there might be several explanations. First, the male swans are responsible for ...

Dead mute white swan: Concerns about bird flu -- Matt -- 24 April 2015

There is a private 4 acre pond in my back yard . There has been a swan couple on the pond for many years. One died a couple of days ago my neighbor told me . Its in the water and I didn't go over to ...

Re: Dead mute white swan: Concerns about bird flu -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2015

Hi Matt There are any number of reasons that the swan could die. Unless there are a lot of dead birds in your area, we would doubt that it died of bird flu. In any case, everyone should be cautious ...

Pair abondoned nest -- Rhonda -- 24 April 2015

Hi, this year we had a pair of mute swans who made our pond their home. They built their nest and it looked as though there were some eggs laid. 2 days ago, an intruding mute swan entered the pond ...

Re: Pair abondoned nest -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2015

Hi Ronda If the true mate was beaten and scared, he may have hidden in the area. Left to her own defenses, she certainly would not let the intruding male near her. Once the intruding male left, the ...

Black swans: Couple separated -- Gwen -- 24 April 2015

My husband bought 2black swans one died so he went to the breeder and got another male. My son said that they separated a pair and put the female in with ducks who then ganged up on the female swan ...

Re: Black swans: Couple separated -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2015

Hi Gwen: You need to take the female swan that was separated from its mate and let whomever you bought it from reunite the pair. It is going to be extremely difficult to allow an odd bird out from a ...

Feeding swans on ice -- Ruiping T -- 23 April 2015

Dear SIr; I live in Beijing China. Currently I am writing a book for children. I have a question about feeding swans. I remembered that I read a book about a Canadian family living with swans in cold ...

Re: Feeding swans on ice -- The Regal Swan -- 23 April 2015

Hi Ruiping Raw rice will kill a bird regardless of being on the snow or ground. This is one of the reasons they do not want people throwing rice at weddings. The birds pick it up and the rice swells. ...

Swan rental -- Murray -- 22 April 2015

I am looking to rent some swans for my granddaughter's wedding reception. in Mass

Re: Swan rental -- The Regal Swan -- 22 April 2015

Hi Murray: The only person that we would recommend for this and might even consider is Bob Knox, Knox Dog & Swans 847-875-3947. The reason we would only recommend Bob is that we know the care that he ...

Update to nest affected by storm from Karen -- Karen -- 22 April 2015

Sadly, the further tide surge ruined the nest and all is gone. I knew this was a terrible location. 7 eggs gone. Two years in a row. What can I do to help? The Cove in Stamford needs to build up some ...

Re: Update to nest affected by storm from Karen -- The Regal Swan -- 22 April 2015

Hi Karen: We need to know the answer for the following question: Are the swans wild or captive? If the swans are wild, then you need to have The Cove build up areas for nesting as the swans are going ...

Re: Update to nest affected by storm from Karen -- Karen -- 23 April 2015

Thank you! I am going to do it! They are wild. I think it may even be the same swans as last year (that lost the eggs in a storm right before they were ready to hatch!). I am going to build up that ...

Re: Update to nest affected by storm from Karen -- The Regal Swan -- 23 April 2015

Hi Karen You are very welcome. Good luck and let us know how this works out. The Regal Swan

Swan behavior: swans swimming with their heads just above the water -- Doug -- 21 April 2015

Recently we saw two swans swimming with their heads just above the water. They were moving there heads back and forth in a sweeping motion with out touching the water, like they were smelling the ...

Re: Swan behavior: swans swimming with their heads just above the water -- The Regal Swan -- 21 April 2015

Hi Doug The swans will feed on top of the water. If they stirred up vegetation from under the water, water beetles, vegetation, fish larvae, etc., even bread, they will skim the food on top of the ...

Nest effected by high tide/storm -- Karen -- 21 April 2015

Hello! Swans built their nest too low (I knew it was!). The recent storm destroyed the nest, and the eggs are scattered close by (but did not wash away). The mom & dad are still watching over ...

Re: Nest effected by high tide/storm -- The Regal Swan -- 21 April 2015

Hi Karen The parent swans may be sitting next to the eggs, but if they haven't been sitting on the eggs, then they will not survive. There is no way that they can collect the eggs on their own and ...

Female swan died before eggs hatched -- Robert -- 20 April 2015

We have a few mute swans on our private ponds. One particular male and female breed every year and she lays her eggs. Didn't have any take last year maybe due to a late frost but this year we thought ...

Re: Female swan died before eggs hatched -- The Regal Swan -- 20 April 2015

Hi Robert: It is highly unlikely that these eggs are viable. Once the female swan leaves the eggs for any significant length of time, they will freeze or get too hot, depending on the outside ...

Who sits on nest? -- Jill -- 18 April 2015

We have a wonderful pair of swans. I usually can tell them apart because he is a bit larger and she doesn't get as close. When they are not together, it is more difficult to determine who is ...

Re: Who sits on nest? -- The Regal Swan -- 19 April 2015

Hi Jill: Once the eggs are laid and the cygnets hatch, the female is the primary bird that sits on top of the eggs and cygnets. Throughout the incubation process, the female swan will take a break ...

Cygnets disappear: How to protect them from predators -- Jill -- 18 April 2015

We are on salt water inlet; in the past few years, the cygnets disappeared. Lat spring, there were seven healthy babies, then they would return in the morning with two fewer, until they were none. I ...

Re: Cygnets disappear: How to protect them from predators -- The Regal Swan -- 19 April 2015

Hi Jill: If these are wild swans, then there isn't much you can do as the swans are going to choose the nesting site and you will not be able to protect the site. If you disturb the site or try pen ...

Swan nesting very close to garden -- Daniela -- 16 April 2015

Hello, I am seeking advice. We live near a tidal creek in Long Island, NY, and have always enjoyed the sight of swans gliding along while tending our very large fruit and vegetable garden which is ...

Re: Swan nesting very close to garden -- The Regal Swan -- 16 April 2015

Hi Daniela: Is there any way that the swan may not be able to get out of the garden? If the garden has become overgrown, it may be that the swan does not have enough area to fly. It may not charge ...

Black Swan Cygnets hatched in incubator -- Jim -- 15 April 2015

hello, We have a few pairs and recently....1 1/2 ago incubator hatched one. It is enclosed with heat lamp...permitted to swim a few times per day and very bonded with my wife...takes on grass ...

Re: Black Swan Cygnets hatched in incubator -- The Regal Swan -- 15 April 2015

Hi Jim: It is not good to handle any waterfowl too much. If you do not hold the cygnets correctly, or if they are placed on any slippery surface, plastic, wet newspaper, tile or wood substrates, they ...

Swan eggs out of nest -- Karen -- 14 April 2015

Swan just laid eggs a few days ago and today the eggs are out of nest. What happened? I placed them back in the nest. Is that okay?

Re: Swan eggs out of nest -- The Regal Swan -- 14 April 2015

Hi Karen: Sometimes accidents occur and eggs are accidently kicked out of the nest while the parents reenter the nest or turn the eggs. Normally, the parents will kick them out of the nest if there ...

Trumpeter Swan: Flight or fight? -- Carrie -- 13 April 2015

Hello, Here's our questions: Do Trumpeter Swans fly away from their enemy or do they slap their enemy with their powerful wings? Thank you for your help in answering our questions. Best, Carrie Mom

Re: Trumpeter Swan: Flight or fight? -- The Regal Swan -- 13 April 2015

Hi Carrie The answer to this question would depend on the predator, it's size and the circumstances of the encounter. For instance, if it is a small predator near the banks of a waterway and if the ...

Returning swan without a partner -- Ari -- 12 April 2015

Hello, again. I have written to you before about the pair of swans who were on our private lake for 11 years together and never left even during the most brutal winters. However, this year, in ...

Re: Returning swan without a partner -- The Regal Swan -- 13 April 2015

Hi Ari There are a couple of reasons, and let's hope it is the first one. 1. The swans made it back to your area, but came back early and your pond was still not resourceful enough to stay, nest and ...

Re: Returning swan without a partner -- Ari -- 13 May 2015

Yes, Regal Swan. Thanks for your reply. I guess you were right and it was not a part 1 happy ending for my beloved family of swans. I think that the one who has returned is a female and the male is ...

Re: Returning swan without a partner -- Ari -- 14 May 2015

No, Regal Swan. Unfortunately, it is for sure, but there is no other swan's presence around him/her. I still think that it's a female and not the male. Though, since there is no other swan to compare ...

Re: Returning swan without a partner -- The Regal Swan -- 14 May 2015

Hi Ari Good update. Don't worry. If a swan of opposite gender is in your lake and this is indeed a female, she probably will take another mate. Until that time, the swan will be fine alone. The Regal ...

Re: Returning swan without a partner -- The Regal Swan -- 13 May 2015

Hi Ari This is normal behavior at this time of the year which is nesting and mating season for swans. Usually, the male swan builds the nest. However, regardless of the presence or absence of a mate, ...

Re: Returning swan without a partner -- Ari -- 3 June 2015

Hello, again, Regal Swan. I just want to update the situation that is an outgoing confusion of me and our lake's community who still watching the swan I have described to you before.As I 've ...

Re: Returning swan without a partner -- The Regal Swan -- 4 June 2015

Hi Ari Have you actually been to the nest to confirm there are no eggs? Here is what we are thinking may have occurred. 1. The male and female began nest building and mating. Then, something happened ...

Re: Returning swan without a partner -- Ari -- 4 June 2015

Thanks, dear Regal Swan. How amazing your site is. I wish humans will unite with their love to animals of any kind and will raise their voices against neglect, abuse, brutality of our Nature and will ...

Swans and Canadian Geese -- Nadine -- 10 April 2015

Hello I was just wondering if swans would keep Canadian geese off our lawn and do swans eat the own poop or just go as much. We live on the river and our lawn is infested in geese and their poop. ...

Re: Swans and Canadian Geese -- The Regal Swan -- 10 April 2015

Hi Nadine: Yes, some swans will keep the geese off your property. No, they do not eat their own feces, and yes, just by their inherent size, they can also defecate in large amounts. However, you will ...

Mute swans scared of trumpeter swans -- Jon & Kate -- 10 April 2015

Hello, We have a male and female Mute swan on our pond. They have lived here for at least 10 years. The male swan is the "keeper" of the pond and scares away all other swans. A few days ago ...

Re: Mute swans scared of trumpeter swans -- The Regal Swan -- 10 April 2015

Hi Jon & Kate: What you experienced is exactly what we have been telling people is going to happen from now on that the U.S. and various state wildlife entities along with hunting organizations ...

Mate for single swan? -- Robbie -- 9 April 2015

Hi, We have had three swans for many years, a pair and a single one. This year the single one came back alone. We have always wondered through the years about a mate for it, but now we are most ...

Re: Mate for single swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 10 April 2015

Hi Robbie We would suggest not trying to find the remaining bird a mate. If the swan can fly, it can find.a mate or find a new habitat. There are no guarantees that this swan will accept a mate, ...

baby 3 week old swans -- Gayle -- 7 April 2015

Hi, We recently purchased a male & female 3 week old swans. There is one adult swan in our lake now, not sure if it is a male or female, but it shows much interest when the swans are on our screened ...

Re: baby 3 week old swans -- The Regal Swan -- 8 April 2015

Hi Gayle: We would not suggest ever taking a cygnet younger than 6 months of age from its parents. Because you now have two very young swans, you must be the parent for the next 6 months. You will ...

Re: baby 3 week old swans -- Gayle -- 9 April 2015

Thank you so much for this information. I neglected to tell you that we live in Florida. We were told when they are 3 months old, we can put them in our lake. Our lake also has geese, but they seem ...

Re: baby 3 week old swans -- The Regal Swan -- 9 April 2015

Hi Gayle: There is NO reputable swan breeder or swan caretaker who would sell you cygnets 3 weeks old and then tell you that you can place them in the pond at 3 months of age. Apparently, an ...

Caring for hatchlings -- Hailey -- 6 April 2015

How do swans care for their young?

Re: Caring for hatchlings -- The Regal Swan -- 6 April 2015

Hi Hailey Cygnets (baby swans) are protected by the parents. They usually are led to the pond 24 hours after hatching. At this point in time, the parents are only there to teach them how to be swans ...

Where do most swans make their homes? -- Savannah -- 6 April 2015

Im doing some research and i need to know Where most swans make their homes?

Re: Where do most swans make their homes? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 April 2015

Hi Savannah: In the wild, swans will make their nests along the banks among reeds and grasses that they can weave in order to make a nest. In captive settings, the owner of the swans must provide ...

Swan nest -- jill -- 6 April 2015

Where do swans make their nest?

Re: Swan nest -- The Regal Swan -- 6 April 2015

Hi Jill In the wild, swans will make their nests along the banks among reeds and grasses that they can weave in order to make a nest. In captive settings, the owner of the swans must provide straw or ...

How do swans care for thier young -- kora -- 6 April 2015

how do swans care for thier young????

Re: How do swans care for thier young -- The Regal Swan -- 6 April 2015

Hi Kora: Cygnets (baby swans) are protected by the parents. They usually are led to the pond 24 hours after hatching. At this point in time, the parents are only there to teach them how to be swans ...

Scared off for good? Will the swans return to our lake now that the ice melted? -- Danielle -- 6 April 2015

Great website! Thanks for the info. We are new residents to a small lake in Wisconsin that is home to a pair of swans. This year they returned in March and sadly there was still quite a bit of ice. ...

Re: Scared off for good? Will the swans return to our lake now that the ice melted? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 April 2015

Hi Danielle: Usually, if the habitat is safe and has a lot of food and nesting resources, the swans should return to the same area. If they have not returned in the next few weeks, then it means that ...

Aggressive swan goose -- Maren luedemann -- 6 April 2015

I have an unusual question. We rescued a domestic Swan Goose I belive, according to the pictures, from freezing this winter. We houses in in our chicken coop. My husband was the one to periodically ...

Re: Aggressive swan goose -- The Regal Swan -- 6 April 2015

Hi Maren: Yes, your husband needs to let the goose know that it is unacceptable behavior to be aggressive to other people. The goose has imprinted on your husband. If you rescued a domesticated ...

Male swan aggresive to female -- Elaine -- 6 April 2015

Hi, I have been following a swan couple for years. they have been mating this spring. The other day 4 Canadian geese landed in the pond so the male chased them out. He also chased the female swan and ...

Re: Male swan aggresive to female -- The Regal Swan -- 6 April 2015

Hi Elaine: There are several reasons for the behavior you have observed. The swan that you may be observing may not be a female. Swans of the same gender will pair up and even mate if there is no ...

Raising swans on salt water harbor? -- Malina -- 5 April 2015

Hi, I recently purchased a house on the harbor in California. I really want to purchase two baby swans and raise them together to be able to leave my patio and go into the water and have fun and then ...

Re: Raising swans on salt water harbor? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 April 2015

Hi Malina Once the swans get used to freedom and find lots of water, they may not want to come back. This is further challenged if others start feeding them and they realize that they don't have to ...

Protecting swan eggs and baby swans -- Margie -- 4 April 2015

Last year our swan couple had five babies. All disappeared in the matter if weeks. Is there anything we can do to help protect the swan's eggs and babies this spring on our pond?

Re: Protecting swan eggs and baby swans -- The Regal Swan -- 4 April 2015

Hi Margie: Unfortunately, everything in nature is eaten by something else. In the case of the cygnets, large mouth bass, turtles, egrets, herons, alligators, owls, hawks, coyote, etc., will use them ...

Swans noise at night -- John -- 2 April 2015

We recently purchased a lodge on a lake in south uk. we have noticed, end of march 2015, the swans are starting to make lots of noise at night. we were told its mating calls but even 10PM they seem ...

Re: Swans noise at night -- The Regal Swan -- 2 April 2015

Hi John Yes, this is mating season for the swans. Habitat and mate defense is constant. The swans are jockeying for prime nesting areas. If they are juveniles vying for a mate for the first time, ...

Swan going back in the pond after injury -- Kelley -- 30 March 2015

Hi, We have a swan that was injured and is now healed. We are getting ready to introduce him back into the pond. He has been out of the pond for 6-8 weeks and only using a baby pool in a protected ...

Re: Swan going back in the pond after injury -- The Regal Swan -- 30 March 2015

Hi Kelley: Yes, you should be concerned about the oiling of his feathers as he can readily drown. For the next week, drench him in warm water and let him preen himself dry. This means completely soak ...

Swans sounds -- Maude -- 29 March 2015

Do male and female swans make different sounds?

Re: Swans sounds -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2015

Hi Maude Great question! Normally, the swans will make the same sounds regardless of gender. The only difference in appearance or behavior is that the male (cob-named from the old German Knopf ...

Father swan is chasing son who does not fly away -- Jon & Kate -- 27 March 2015

Hello, We live on a pond and our association has two mute swans that also live here (male and female). Two years ago they had 5 cygnets and one male survived. Last year when he was one year old his ...

Re: Father swan is chasing son who does not fly away -- The Regal Swan -- 28 March 2015

Hi Jon & Kate If he lasted the first year without the male trying to hurt him, he should be okay. This is not to say that this could not happen in the future, but once the breeding season ends, the ...

Swans on the ocean -- Lizzie -- 26 March 2015

Hi, I live on Marblehead, MA Harbor. My children and I have been enjoying a pair of swans all winter. Will they remain here when the weather gets warm, or will they move to a pond inland? Thank you!

Re: Swans on the ocean -- The Regal Swan -- 26 March 2015

Hi Lizzie Only the Black Necked Swans of South America have the ability to filter salt from the water. Other species of swans can't, but can survive for short periods of time in salt water. The salt ...

Male swan killed, we want to purchase another male for the female swan -- Jacqueline -- 25 March 2015

The male swan on our little lake was killed by a coyote. The female swan acts very lonely. I would like to purchase another male swan as soon as possible . We are in Carson City Nevada. Where can I ...

Re: Male swan killed, we want to purchase another male for the female swan -- The Regal Swan -- 25 March 2015

Hi Jacqueline: There are no guarantees that the female will take on another mate. She can survive without a mate, the problem is if she can survive another coyote attack. It would be better to bring ...

Re: Male swan killed, we want to purchase another male for the female swan -- Jacqueline -- 31 March 2015

Thank you for your prompt reply. I was out of town, and upon return I was happy to see the female swan seems to be doing fine now! Fencing the area I fear will not be approved by the HOA, so want to ...

Re: Male swan killed, we want to purchase another male for the female swan -- The Regal Swan -- 31 March 2015

Hi Jacqueline: The plastic carrier would not be the shelter to use. It can float away, upend in the water and drown the swan. Also, the swan will not be able to stretch for long periods of time. If ...

Re: Male swan killed, we want to purchase another male for the female swan -- Jacqueline -- 2 April 2015

Thank you again for answering my question re a pen for our female swan. I'll ask the property manager today, and see what response I get. I sincerely hope we can do something for her, to keep her ...

Re: Male swan killed, we want to purchase another male for the female swan -- The Regal Swan -- 2 April 2015

You are welcome Jacqueline. Please let us know how this works out. The Regal Swan

Mute swans sleeping habits -- david -- 22 March 2015

I was wondering when, how long for, and so on, regarding mute swans sleeping habits?

Re: Mute swans sleeping habits -- The Regal Swan -- 22 March 2015

Hi David: From observations, the Mute Swans, as well as other swan species, take naps here and there. Regardless if the swans are in a wild or captive settings, there are many predators (domestic and ...

Older female with younger male -- Joyce -- 20 March 2015

We have had a female swan on our lake for about 8 years. We had her brother in the beginning but he got out and was killed on the road. We understand siblings don't mate. Now we have just put a young ...

Re: Older female with younger male -- The Regal Swan -- 21 March 2015

Hi Joyce: You have been provided misinformation. Swans, in fact birds and some mammals will breed with their own siblings. In swans, you don't have to worry so much about genetic anomalies. In fact, ...

Black swans stay in the barn: Do I need to take them to the pond? -- Cindy -- 20 March 2015

Just got a female breeder swan to go with my male. They meet in our barn and can come and go at free will. Its been 4 days now and they havent come out of the barn to the ponds, Is this normal for ...

Re: Black swans stay in the barn: Do I need to take them to the pond? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 March 2015

Hi Cindy: It would seem that they have a nest somewhere in the barn and she is sitting on the eggs. This would be normal behavior for not wanting to leave the nest/eggs. If this is the case, you need ...

Swans in salt water harbor -- Carl -- 19 March 2015

We see swans in Marblehead Harbor (salt water). How many swans are there in Ma.? Thank you, Carl.

Re: Swans in salt water harbor -- The Regal Swan -- 20 March 2015

Hi Carl We do not have that information. If you are in one of the states that are killing them, then not many. You would need to check with your state wildlife entities for the numbers, but even ...

Mother swan and cygnets in a pen -- Patty -- 19 March 2015

If a swan has babies and a male is not there to help, and if the mother and babies are put into a pen to protect them, will she hurt the babies?

Re: Mother swan and cygnets in a pen -- The Regal Swan -- 20 March 2015

Hi Patty The mother can protect the cygnets without placing them in a pen. But, no she won't intentionally hurt them, although the chances increase that she might accidentally step on them on a pen. ...

Swan habitat: cooled or hot lakes? -- Nyla -- 19 March 2015

Do swans like living in cooled lakes or hot lakes

Re: Swan habitat: cooled or hot lakes? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 March 2015

Hi Nyla As long as the lake is not frozen or boiling, it probably does not matter. There are several other factors which are more important. The first, is whether the swan species is from the ...

Swan eggs on humid straw -- Eugenio -- 18 March 2015

My swans are nesting and the straw they are using is kind of humid, here at my place rains a lot. is it necesary to put a ceiling made out of wood or any kind of protection ???? does eggs get rotten ...

Re: Swan eggs on humid straw -- The Regal Swan -- 18 March 2015

Hi Eugenio: The straw is going to get wet regardless of rain, sleet or snow. Once the mother goes out into the pond and then sits on the eggs, she is wet and will transfer that moisture to the nest. ...

Strobe lighting affect on swans' eyes -- Carl -- 18 March 2015

What affect does strobe lighting have on swans' eyes? My Condo Association Board is considering placing a strobe lighting device on the edge of our pond to get rid of hundreds of geese around same. ...

Re: Strobe lighting affect on swans -- The Regal Swan -- 18 March 2015

Hi Carl This is not something that we recommend unless you bring your swans inside at night. If the strobe light affects geese or other birds, it is going to have the same detrimental effect on your ...

Male swan's strange behavior: Walks in wooded areas more than stays in the water -- Jim -- 18 March 2015

Greetings, We have two swans; father and daughter. They occupy separate ponds because it appears Papa wants to mate but daughter doesn't want to. Now papa is acting strange, moving about the ...

Re: Male swan -- The Regal Swan -- 18 March 2015

Hi Jim: Are you absolutely sure you have a male and a female? If the swans are of the same gender, someone or something is chasing the other one out of the habitat. This could lead to the bird being ...

Re: Male swan -- Jim -- 19 March 2015

Greetings, As far as we know, the male is the father of the female, and it is he who used to chase after her. It appears he is not doing that anymore. Since there are no other swans in the area, it ...

Re: Male swan -- Jim -- 20 March 2015

I now learn that the tables have turned. The daughter swan chases the father! So it appears that this is the problem and why father won't go back into the water. He just hangs out in the woods where ...

Re: Male swan -- The Regal Swan -- 20 March 2015

Hi Jim: From what has transpired, we do not think either one of these swans are a female. Females do not chase males, and males usually will not hurt a female. And, therein lies the problem. The ...

Re: Male swan -- The Regal Swan -- 20 March 2015

Hi Jim Please let us know how this works out. If there isn't anything wrong with him, the capture out of the water and quality time with the vet may make him rethink leaving the safety of the water. ...

Can swans exist in salt water? -- Marie -- 16 March 2015

MY BROTHER IN LAW SAYS SWANS DO NOT GO IN SALT WATER AND MUST HAVE A FRESH WATER POND OR LAKE? I HAPPEN TO LIVE ON SALT WATER IN ONSET, MA AND WE HAVE SEVERAL SWANS IN OUR SALT WATER IN FACT. WE HAVE ...

Re: Can swans exist in salt water? -- The Regal Swan -- 16 March 2015

Hi Marie Black-Necked Swans from South America seem to survive in brackish water because they possess a filter that allows them to separate the salt from the water. However, all other species can die ...

Fawn Colored Swan? -- Karen -- 15 March 2015

I live in Muncie, Indiana. We have a river that runs through town with parkland around it and we have some geese that live here year round and some geese the migrate with the populations getting ...

Re: Fawn Colored Swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 16 March 2015

Hi Karen What you are describing seems to be juvenile swan which has not turned its adult color-white. The juveniles will get their full coloration including bill coloration at approximately 11-12 ...

Female laid eggs in barn: Should we move her outside as soon as the ice melts on the pond? -- Cindy -- 15 March 2015

HI. Our female swan has laid 3 eggs already while in their pen in the barn. We brought them off the pond when it froze over for the winter. She is 6 weeks ahead of last years hatching. Is it possible ...

Re: Female laid eggs in barn: Should we move her outside as soon as the ice melts on the pond? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 March 2015

Hi Cindy If there is a male, she is not going to lay eggs just to be laying in the winter. So, they could very well be fertile. If you move her, you will certainly kill the eggs. We would keep her in ...

Lonely Swan in Front Yard -- Julie -- 12 March 2015

Every spring, there's a big population of mute swans in the bay at the end of our street. The lake is currently still frozen and the weather is only beginning to break, so there aren't any swans ...

Re: Lonely Swan in Front Yard -- The Regal Swan -- 12 March 2015

Hi Julie He may be waiting for the pond to unfreeze and he also could be hungry, injured or sick. The problem is that your Michigan DNR will have him and the rest of your swans killed if they find ...

Found abandoned swan eggs -- Stephanie -- 9 March 2015

Hello. Well I live in Las Vegas, NV, and just yesterday my boyfriend and I decided to go to these man-made lakes near our apartment to feed the ducks. There are many ducks and turtles and black and ...

Re: Found abandoned swan eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 9 March 2015

Hi Stephanie: The chances that the eggs are viable are very remote. Once an egg has been disturbed and not under the mom, even for a small amount of time, the eggs will not survive. Most of the time, ...

How to save mute swan cygnets -- Ronny -- 8 March 2015

Last year year all 6 hatched cygnets were killed. I think by snakes. I put repellant out every other day prior to hatching. I am considering taking the hatched cygnets this year and raising them in a ...

Re: How to save mute swan cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 9 March 2015

Hi Ronny: You DO NOT want to take the cygnets from their parents. To do so, will cause the birds to become imprinted, meaning they think that they are people instead of swans and you cannot teach ...

Egg laying -- Richard -- 8 March 2015

How soon after mating will young swan lay eggs?

Re: Egg laying -- The Regal Swan -- 8 March 2015

Hi Richard: Swans will mate and then lay eggs approximately every other day for approximately 2 weeks. There are several factors that can influence the timing. If cold weather starts again and true ...

Swan introduction -- Barbara -- 7 March 2015

Hi, We have 2 swans on a big pond, I have one on a second pond. Can I move the single one with the couple without taking the risk for her to be beat up by the couple..

Re: Swan introduction -- The Regal Swan -- 8 March 2015

Hi Barbara This situation depends on several factors: species of swans, gender of third swan and individual attributes. Some swans (individual attributes such as docile, calm) and some species of ...

Where do swans from NJ winter? -- Maureen -- 5 March 2015

I live in northwestern New Jersey and was wondering where swans in this area winter. Do they stay local or migrate elsewhere?

Black swan neck problems -- Muneer -- 5 March 2015

hi--this is muneer we have (Wings )birds park in Ramojifilm city,wtich is world largest film city and i have 16 def rent type of swans in that i have 4 black swans in 1 swan is from 4 days found neck ...

Re: Black swan neck problems -- The Regal Swan -- 5 March 2015

Hi Not being able to lift the head could be anything from poisoning such as Botulism, a severe neurological problem from an injury to bad bacterial, fungal or viral infection or a nutritional ...

Color of young swans -- Libby -- 3 March 2015

Why are young swans a different color than the adult swans?

Re: Color of young swans -- The Regal Swan -- 3 March 2015

Hi Libby This is nature's way to allow the young cygnets and the parents to recognize each other and bond. As the cygnets age, approximately 6 months of age, they begin to change to their adult ...

Swan found alone -- Chelsea -- 3 March 2015

I recently found someone dump a swan by itself outside in the freezing cold. Will it survive without a mate?

Re: Swan found alone -- The Regal Swan -- 3 March 2015

Hi Chelsea It will survive without a mate, but the bigger concern is if it is a captive swan and someone dropped it off. In that case, it won't survive without food or shelter. Ohio wildlife ...

Swans near our mall in Massachusetts -- Kelly -- 3 March 2015

I live in Massachusetts and it's currently 28 degrees. There are two swans that have been hanging around our local mall for a week now. I'm just seeing them for the first time today and am wondering ...

Re: Swans near our mall in Massachusetts -- The Regal Swan -- 3 March 2015

Hi Kelly They could have been blown off the migratory path and need to rest. If people are feeding them, they may want to stay instead of leaving. Do they look hurt? Is there a pond nearby? Because ...

Black Swans in Stanley Park -- Rory -- 2 March 2015

There used to be a few black swans in Stanley Park that I remember Do you know when and how they came to be here, and what happened to them when?

Re: Black Swans in Stanley Park -- Fiona -- 3 March 2015

Hi, Rory! Thank you for your question: Yes, there were Australian Black Swans in Stanley Park, from the late 1970s to early 1980s. In 1977 one of them had two cygnets. They were moved to another area ...

Trumpeter swan food -- Jenna -- 1 March 2015

Hi! I'm doing a project on trumpeter swans for 3rd grade. One of my questions that I have to answer is: What are the different foods that trumpeter swans eat for different stages of their life? I ...

Re: Trumpeter swan food -- The Regal Swan -- 1 March 2015

Hi Jenna All swans are grazers. The birds eat aquatic vegetation as well as habitat vegetation such as rye grass, petunias or other readily available food sources that other grazing animals such as ...

How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- Julian -- 1 March 2015

It s great to know that we have a web page devoted to swan lovers and will for sure learn a lot from you about black swans. I have three simple but important questions for you please: 1) how can I ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- The Regal Swan -- 1 March 2015

Hi Julian: Thanks for you kind comments. You cannot tell a male from a female swan at 5 months of age, regardless of species. The male genitalia has not completely formed, so what you might see or ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- Julian -- 2 March 2015

Hi Dear, it is a great pleasure to hear your advice. I appreciate it. I am not sure if I understood regarding poultry layer pellets with anticcocidial additives. Is it safe to give swans poultry ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- The Regal Swan -- 3 March 2015

Hi Julian You need to check with a local poultry farmer to see if the additives are safe and if he uses the feed for his poultry. If it is safe for poultry then it will be safe for the swans. Adult ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- Julian -- 9 March 2015

Hi Dear, Thanks so much for your kindness and worthy advice. I have a health issue with a juvenile swan (5 months old). After a long 10-hrs car ride he cannot stand up and hold, however he eats and ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- The Regal Swan -- 10 March 2015

Hi Julian It sounds as if the veterinarian is on the proper course in providing pain relief and precautionary infection control. A 10 hour ride is extremely stressful. Was the swan in a container ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- Julian -- 11 March 2015

Good morning and my many thanks for your worthy advice. Actually both swans were transported on the trunk of 4x4 truck but it was not tightly closed with a venting for air entrance. Trunk door was ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 March 2015

Hi Julian This is tough call and too soon to make. Give the antibiotics some time to work as well as the nutrition. It is a good sign that it is eating and drinking. Is it eating a lot throughout the ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- Julian -- 11 March 2015

Good morning Actually I thought he was eating fine but since you mentioned that it is normal for them to do it once or twice every hour I must say that I haven't seen so. They both eat and drink ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 March 2015

Hi Julian Forget tube feeding if you nor the veterinarian have never conducted this procedure. You can kill the bird and very quickly. The procedure must be done in a specific manner with a specific ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- Julian -- 27 April 2015

Hii, I wanted to share with you that after several days worrying about my male swan cygnet not being able to walk and eat properly, he recovered fully and looks absolutely amazing. They both are ...

Re: How to feed black swans? Vaccinate against New Castle disease? -- The Regal Swan -- 27 April 2015

Hi Julian That is a relatively good diet, but the young swans need Vitamin A which is found in cracked corn. Failure to include this in their diet could result in neurological problems. The protein ...

There is a swan sitting in the field near my house -- Michelle -- 28 February 2015

Hi, There is a single swan sitting on the snow near my house & hasn't moved for several hours:( I tried calling the Audubon Society, but they were closed. I'm not sure what I should do. It's dark ...

Re: There is a swan sitting in the field near my house -- The Regal Swan -- 28 February 2015

Hi Michelle Hopefully, it will have flown off by tomorrow morning or at least not been attacked by a predator. The National Audubon Society promotes the killing of Mute Swans, those with orange ...

Swan sitting on ice in road -- Janice -- 28 February 2015

Why would a large swan decide to sit once in the road by my house in the middle of winter? I tried to scare it away, but it just sits.

Re: Swan sitting on ice in road -- The Regal Swan -- 28 February 2015

Hi Janice: There are a couple of reasons the swan may be sitting in the middle of the road. The first, would be an injury as the bird may have mistaken the slick ice for a pond and crash landed on ...

Lone swan -- Carol -- 26 February 2015

A lone swan appeared on the lake yesterday and is still there today. It's probably a tundra swan, younger with less/dulled white on neck and I can't clearly see been color. This season 100s of ...

Lone swan in VA -- Carol -- 26 February 2015

Recently inquired about a swan here at Lake Pelham. As lighting improved, it appears he has a more orangish beak than black - less dynamic in color perhaps if a juvenile? Does the mute swan travel ...

Re: Lone swan in VA -- The Regal Swan -- 26 February 2015

Hi Carol: Yes, you would be correct that this is a juvenile swan, probably 8-11 months of age. At approximately one year of age, the beak becomes the traditional orange/red color of the Mute Swans. ...

Why save swan? -- Ashley -- 25 February 2015

Why do we need to save Swan

Re: Why save swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 26 February 2015

Hi Ashley: Good question! Swans are Sentinel birds, especially Mute Swans, which alert scientists to problems in the environment. THEY ARE NOT an invasive species as has been wrongfully reported for ...

Swan in my yard - what should i do? -- Ginny -- 22 February 2015

There is a swan in my front yard and it's been sitting there all day hiding behind my hedges. I tried to send a path of food (greens) to the mill pond across the street, but it won't go. It moves ...

Re: Swan in my yard - what should i do? -- The Regal Swan -- 22 February 2015

Hi Ginny It may be hurt or gotten lost during the winter winds. Could you please let us know where you live and a phone number so we might give you someone who can rescue the swan? The website ...

Mixing swan species -- Frank -- 21 February 2015

I have a home in eastern Washington State with a private 9 acre pond. I keep heritage breed domestic ducks and about 7 Emden geese. I have always loved swans. Can I introduce juvenile or breeding ...

Re: Mixing swan species -- The Regal Swan -- 21 February 2015

Hi Frank: You may need a permit to keep the Trumpeter Swans and a breeding permit if you want to have cygnets. Trumpeter swans can and will kill other waterfowl just because of their inherent size. ...

Black necked swan in Ontario -- Sharyn -- 21 February 2015

My mom saw a black necked swan on Balsam Lake, Ontario. How is that possible? Did his gps malfunction? Isn't Ontario still in the northern hemisphere? I know birds can travel inconceivable distances ...

Re: Black necked swan in Ontario -- Karen -- 6 May 2017

Was reading up on the black neck swan. I'm not sure why they are here but we have at least 6 of them in the flooded out field near our house in Angus Ontario. Beautiful to see.

Re: Black necked swan in Ontario -- The Regal Swan -- 7 May 2017

Hi Karen: Black-Necked Swans are a southern hemisphere swan species and do not do well in northern climates unless they are kept indoors during the winter months. You might want to ask around to see ...

Re: Black necked swan in Ontario -- Neil -- 11 May 2015

My wife swears she saw, not one, but SIX black necked swans in the Lynde Creek marsh area here in Whitby, Ontario, CANADA. When I checked, I saw that swans matching their description were native to ...

Re: Black necked swan in Ontario -- The Regal Swan -- 12 May 2015

Hi Neil Without seeing a photo, we're not sure about the bird your wife described. If they are indeed Black-Necks, they are probably escapees from someone's captive setting as they will not migrate ...

Re: Black necked swan in Ontario -- Neil -- 12 May 2015

We will certainly be watching regularly as we have over the past few weeks for these mystery fowl. My wife is sure they were the same size as the swans we normally see, and wasn't aware that what she ...

Re: Black necked swan in Ontario -- The Regal Swan -- 12 May 2015

Hi Neil Hopefully, you will be able to see the birds again and we can identify them. What is even more perplexing is that they are the same size as the swans you normally see. The Black-Necked Swans ...

Re: Black necked swan in Ontario -- The Regal Swan -- 21 February 2015

Hi Sharyn: Wild Black-Necked swans are from South America. However, this particular swan is probably someone's captive swan that escaped. The swan needs to be recaptured and placed in a warm area ...

Re: Black necked swan in Ontario -- Mike R -- 22 January 2018

We just saw 5 swans, with black necks with 2 white ones. The black necked ones were almost as big as the white ones. Too far away for a pic so far. We are near Rice Lake at Hastings, On.

Black necked swan in Ontario -- Karen -- 23 February 2018

Saw a black necked swan yesterday, in a flooded out field just outside Dunnville ON. Of course I did not have a camera but this type of swan is so distinctive. Wow!

Re: Black necked swan in Ontario -- The Regal Swan -- 23 February 2018

Hi Karen Yes, the Australian Black Swans are stunning. We have heard about individuals seeing this species in Ontario. The Regal Swan

Swans in Massachusetts (winter) -- Lisa -- 20 February 2015

Hi, there is a small pond behind me where 2 swans live,.. I can see them sitting on the ice, curled up.. Are they ok? It's really cold. I did go over and throw some bread and corn kernel mix I had ...

Re: Swans in Massachusetts (winter) -- The Regal Swan -- 21 February 2015

Hi Lisa: There needs to be some break in the ice so that they can eat and drink because they can choke on any food if they do not have water. They can also become very dehydrated and starve if there ...

KEEPING SWANS IN WESTERN KY -- SHERRY -- 19 February 2015

WE HAVE A 5 ACRE LAKE IN OUR BACK YARD AND PRESENTLY HAVE CALL DUCKS. THEIR WINGS HAVE BEEN CLIPPED. WE FEED THEM CORN DAILY BUT OTHER THAN THAT THEY ARE ON THEIR OWN. WE STARTED WITH 14 AND ARE NOW ...

Re: KEEPING SWANS IN WESTERN KY -- The Regal Swan -- 20 February 2015

Hi Sherry Wild birds will fare better because they can fly from one area to the next in search of shelter and food. Captive birds, on the other hand, cannot fly and should be brought indoors in these ...

Where Do Massachusetts Swans Go in Winter? -- Minerva -- 15 February 2015

I am from Tewksbury, Massachusetts Where Do Swans Go in Winter?

Re: Where Do Massachusetts Swans Go in Winter? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 February 2015

Hi Minerva The U.S. is divided by various flyways, such as Atlantic, Mississippi, Pacific, etc. Although birds in various regions will go to the nearest flyway for winter and summer migration, it ...

Water requirements to keep swans -- Jean -- 13 February 2015

Hi I would like to purchase a pair of swans but before I do I need to know how big would I need their pond to be? Many thanks Jean

Re: Water requirements to keep swans -- The Regal Swan -- 14 February 2015

Hi Jean: There are several issues that need to be considered prior to developing the size of the pond. 1. Which species of swans are you planning on housing? Some swan species need smaller or larger ...

Strange action from my swans (male chasing female, used to be loving) -- Kim -- 9 February 2015

We bought our home last summer and it came with 2 swans on the pond. We feed them daily and they are usually very loving to each other and stay together at all times. Yesterday we couldn't find one ...

Re: Strange action from my swans (male chasing female, used to be loving) -- The Regal Swan -- 9 February 2015

Hi Kim This would seem to be aggressive behavior toward the other, especially if they are of the same gender and it is nesting season. However, the discolored fluid is what is of most concern. This ...

Re: Strange action from my swans (male chasing female, used to be loving) -- Kim -- 11 February 2015

Thank you for the reply. I do believe she is sick in some way because she remains on the porch and I have left food and water for her and she does try to eat and drink but coughs a lot while she is ...

Re: Strange action from my swans (male chasing female, used to be loving) -- The Regal Swan -- 11 February 2015

Hi Kim: You are very welcome. We are hoping that this is nothing serious and look forward to hearing from you. The Regal Swan

Re: Strange action from my swans (male chasing female, used to be loving) -- Kim -- 12 February 2015

Well, I'm finding it's very hard to find anyone anywhere close to my area that works with swans. I do have a vet that we know that is willing to get me some B-12 and Antibiotics to give her but he ...

Re: Strange action from my swans (male chasing female, used to be loving) -- Lynne -- 13 February 2015

Hi Kim, This is such a sad story. Is there a vet school/university near you or a trauma vet? Perhaps this type of place could take a look at her in addition to your vet helping out. There is an avian ...

Re: Strange action from my swans (male chasing female, used to be loving) -- Marie -- 21 February 2015

We are currently caring for a very sick black swan. She was found on our path unable to lift her head. We've kept her in a cage and avian Vet Jeanne Smith (Diamond Springs CA) did blood work and ...

Black Swan habitat where to build nest -- Marie -- 8 February 2015

We have welcomed black swans to our 30-acre lake in a private community. In the past they have laid their eggs in a large nest built in our yard but every night they leave the nest and raccoons get ...

Re: Black Swan habitat where to build nest -- The Regal Swan -- 8 February 2015

Hi Marie: You need to build an enclosed pen (top to bottom, 1/2 in water and 1/2 on bank with feeder inside) for the swans to nest. The enclosed pen must be solid so that animals cannot dig under the ...

Re: Black Swan habitat where to build nest -- Marie -- 21 February 2015

Thank you for your information. We didn't have an opportunity to follow your instructions before the pair chose our yard to build their nest and now have two eggs. We are very excited that they've ...

Re: Black Swan habitat where to build nest -- The Regal Swan -- 21 February 2015

Hi Marie You are welcome. Congratulations on being able to enjoy this wonderful experience. Just make sure that they are penned or in an area that predators, dogs, cats, raccoons, etc., cannot get to ...

Tapping water with chin -- Nicolas -- 8 February 2015

What does it mean when a swan lightly slaps the water with the underside of its beak. It does this with its neck stretched out.

Re: Tapping water with chin -- The Regal Swan -- 8 February 2015

Hi Nicolas: This behavior is exhibited when the swans are eating food on top of the water (i.e., vegetation, bread or other materials that have floated to the top) or drinking water. If the head and ...

setting up new habitat for single young adult -- Carol -- 8 February 2015

Hi- it's been awhile since I've been in contact. I wrote you about our pair of of mute swans that had 5 cygnets that hatched but we didn't know enough to have their wings taken care of a a young ...

Re: setting up new habitat for single young adult -- The Regal Swan -- 8 February 2015

Hi Carol: The pen that is described in the book can be used for nesting, veterinary care, etc. The lattice pen that you describe is actually very dangerous or nesting birds especially, if the opening ...

Female swan unable to stand, no appetite -- Cassie -- 6 February 2015

Hi there, I am an avian rehabilitator in Iowa in the United States and I have a female swan in my care right now. I am estimating her age to be about 5 years old. I am very concerned for her because ...

Re: Female swan unable to stand, no appetite -- The Regal Swan -- 6 February 2015

HI Cassie: There are several possibilities for the swans inappetance and lack of ability to stand. The problem could be from poisoning, bacterial, viral or fungal infection or some time of ...

Re: Female swan unable to stand, no appetite -- Cassie -- 6 February 2015

Thank you so much for the information. I appreciate you responding so kindly and quickly We are treating the swan for pneumonia like symptoms. She is on a twice daily antibiotic. We did do a lead ...

Re: Female swan unable to stand, no appetite -- The Regal Swan -- 6 February 2015

Hi Cassie Try giving her some wet bread. If she starts to eat the bread, add a bunch of wet bread on top of water in a bowl. Add cracked corn and poultry layer pellets in the bottom of the water. If ...

Lonely swan -- Tracy -- 5 February 2015

For the past 4 yrs, I've owned 2 female mute swans. Three days ago, one was killed. The one that is left seems so sad. They were very aggressive w/ each other, at times, but never stayed apart. I'm ...

Re: Lonely swan -- The Regal Swan -- 5 February 2015

Hi Tracy We are very sorry for your loss. Do you know what killed the swan? Yes swans like all animals do grieve, but it is different than humans in that nature does not allow for extended grief. To ...

Re: Lonely swan -- Tracy -- 6 February 2015

Sadly, I think one swan killed the other. Her neck was broken. During this time of year, they are very aggressive with one another. I believe it's bc its mating season ?Even though both female, still ...

Re: Lonely swan -- The Regal Swan -- 6 February 2015

Hi Tracy: It is not likely that the other swan broke the swan's neck. Probably, there was an injury sustained from running away or running into something. In any case, there are no guarantees that ...

Trapped swan -- Nic -- 5 February 2015

Hi, While out walking my dog tonight down my local canal, I saw which I first thought was a deer in the canal. When I got abit closer I noticed it was three swans. Two large and one smaller. I'm ...

Re: Trapped swan -- The Regal Swan -- 5 February 2015

Hi Nic Please call the RSPCA and report this immediately. They will try to rescue it and get it help. A predator could get to the swan or it could be injured and need a veterinarian. If you leave it ...

What happens to eggs in the wild if the mother dies -- Amanda -- 3 February 2015

I'm watching a movie on swans where the mother dies but they called fish and wildlife. They picked up the clutch and three of five of eggs made it. But if they never interfered, would the father have ...

Re: What happens to eggs in the wild if the mother dies -- Amanda -- 4 February 2015

Thank you for answering my question I'm always on the look out to learn new information. I recently joined a couple photography groups one all about birds and in ten years I'm planning on doing a big ...

Re: What happens to eggs in the wild if the mother dies -- The Regal Swan -- 5 February 2015

Hi Amanda You are very welcome. Please follow us on our Facebook page. The Regal Swan

Re: What happens to eggs in the wild if the mother dies -- The Regal Swan -- 4 February 2015

Hi Amanda We saw the same movie. Not realistic. First, swan eggs are extremely difficult to incubate. If they are left abandoned for any significant amount of time, they will not be viable. Also, ...

Swans frozen in ice -- Paula -- 4 February 2015

hi I live in on a tidal river in Mashpee Massachusetts and there are four swans frozen in the ice right now they are alive but I'm not sure how long they can last. I'm hoping the water will get ...

Re: Swans frozen in ice -- Georgina -- 5 February 2015

Hi Paula, How are the swans? I noticed your post in Mashpee and I live in Hyannisport so I posted the number for Wild Care Cape Cod for you. Hope all ended well.

Re: Swans frozen in ice -- Georgina -- 4 February 2015

Hi Paula, These swans should be saved asap. If you don't feel comfortable breaking the ice around them or melting it with warm water - You should call Wild Care Cape Cod 508-240-2255. They can assist ...

Re: Swans frozen in ice -- The Regal Swan -- 4 February 2015

Hi Paula The only thing that can be done is to break the ice around them or capture them and remove them from the ice. If they are frozen to the ice, you will need warm/hot water to throw under them. ...

Cold new england, frozen pond -- Georgina -- 3 February 2015

Hi, I live in massachusetts on a pond near the ocean and we are experiencing a very cold winter, blustery wind, snow, cold rain and a recent blizzard with temps dropping into the teens this week. ...

Re: Cold new england, frozen pond -- The Regal Swan -- 3 February 2015

Hi Georgina The swan may have gotten blown off course during the last cold front and cannot leave because the other swans have already migrated and he is too late to try and migrate. The other reason ...

Re: Cold new england, frozen pond -- Georgina -- 4 February 2015

Thank you for your response. The swan sits right on the ice or on the edge so there is plenty of clearance to fly up away from a predator. Just not sure if she can sleep having to take watch all the ...

Re: Cold new england, frozen pond -- The Regal Swan -- 4 February 2015

Hi Georgina If the swan hisses at you, then it probably will not let you get near her, much less pick her up. She will not go into the shed on her own. Even if you chased her indoors, once you let ...

Re: Cold new england, frozen pond -- Lynne -- 4 February 2015

Georgina, I live in NJ where we have a swan on our lake. Our lake is also frozen and our swan cannot fly. We keep an area of the lake open for him by having installed aeration systems that pump air ...

Injured swan -- Judy -- 1 February 2015

We had a swan on a pond in our neighborhood and I saw her sitting on right next to the road sort of listing to the left. We called a wildlife organization who came and got her. She had been attacked ...

Re: Injured swan -- The Regal Swan -- 2 February 2015

Hi Judy: There could be several explanations for the swan being in the open field. During winter months, aquatic vegetation is scarce and the swans, being grazing birds will look for areas to ...

Icy beaks . . . what to do? -- Amy -- 30 January 2015

Hello - I have two mute swans living on the river behind my house. This is the third year that I have feed them during the extremely cold months here in Michigan. This morning I noticed their beaks ...

Re: Icy beaks . . . what to do? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 January 2015

Place some bread in warm water. The warm water will melt the ice. Just don't get it too hot or the swans won't drink, make it lukewarm. On another note, please note that Michigan DNR is committed to ...

Re: Icy beaks . . . what to do? -- Amy -- 30 January 2015

I appreciate all the info and will definately be doing something pro-active as I feel these wild swans are "mine" and would be devasted if anything happened to them. I look forward to ...

Re: Icy beaks . . . what to do? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 January 2015

You are very welcome. The Regal Swan

How to stop feeding? -- Amy -- 30 January 2015

Hello ~ I read that I really should not feed the swans bread (even though its fridgid and their food source is low), when they return next fall - should I just not feed them anymore? Will they know ...

Re: How to stop feeding? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 January 2015

Hi Amy Bread can be fed to swans although too much can change their blood chemistry. Also, it acts as a filler with little nutritional value. The best thing to feed them is a mixture of poultry layer ...

Re: How to stop feeding? -- Amy -- 30 January 2015

Thank you! I will be heading to the local farm & feed store after work.

Re: How to stop feeding? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 January 2015

Excellent. The Regal Swan

How can I build a lightweight floating swan nest? -- Bernard -- 26 January 2015

Hi, I'm an on the streets 24/7 cats dogs and wildlife etc animal rescue volunteer. I moved beside a river a few years ago, I have recently started saving swans and have been jumping in the river and ...

Re: How can I build a lightweight floating swan nest? -- The Regal Swan -- 27 January 2015

Hi Bernard: You might go online and look for floating nests for geese and expand on these. Barrels, tires, wood hinged nesting boxes have been used. The problem is in the type of material that might ...

Male swan suddenly aggressive -- Amber -- 26 January 2015

Hi there, A question about a male swan I feed daily. In the UK it’s January, so still winter, but moving into spring in around 8 weeks. Over the last 2 weeks, the male of the pair has become ...

Re: Male swan suddenly aggressive -- The Regal Swan -- 26 January 2015

Hi Amber: It sounds like he has turned from Jr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde which is exactly the behavior experienced during nesting season. The weather seems to be warming a little earlier than usual this ...

Re: Male swan suddenly aggressive -- Amber -- 27 January 2015

Thank you - great advice!

Re: Male swan suddenly aggressive -- The Regal Swan -- 27 January 2015

Hi Amber: You are very welcome. The Regal Swan

Young swan cannot stand -- Jim -- 26 January 2015

I AM A WILDLIFE CARER IN AUSTRALIA. YESTERDAY MORNING I WAS ASKED TO PICK UP A BLACK SWAN THAT HAD BOTH LEGS ON ITS BACK AND WAS MOTIVATING WITH WEAK FLAPS OF ITS WINGS. I took it home. Put it in a ...

Re: Young swan cannot stand -- The Regal Swan -- 26 January 2015

Hi Jim: With the description you are providing, it seems that it is neurologically compromised, either by being hit by a car, running into something or crash landing on the parking lot. If the cygnet ...

Lone cygnet -- Margaret -- 26 January 2015

Hi, My husband feeds a family of swans that live on a lake close by to our home, the last couple of years have been very unsuccessful, with only one of the six signets surviving. This baby is around ...

Re: Lone cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 26 January 2015

Hi Margaret You might want to contact the RSPCA or Wendy Hermon at Swan Lifeline in Eton to check out the situation just in case the swan cannot survive on its own. This is especially true if the ...

Significance of a swan flying in front of you. -- Chad -- 21 January 2015

What does it mean when a swan flies in front of you ?

Re: Significance of a swan flying in front of you. -- The Regal Swan -- 21 January 2015

Hi Chad: Regardless of a swan being wild or domesticated, most flight paths are for finding food, another habitat or evasive tactics. If a swan is flying that close to you, you were possibly in its ...

One of the babies, now grown up, is still with the parents while all the others left -- Heather -- 20 January 2015

We have a pair of swans in a lake near my house. Every year they have about six babies and the babies leave in the fall. This year one of babies who is all grown up now is still with them. It is nice ...

Re: One of the babies, now grown up, is still with the parents while all the others left -- The Regal Swan -- 20 January 2015

Hi Heather If the cygnet was the last to hatch, i.e., the runt (and probably female because the male parent is allowing it to remain), it may not have fully developed wings in time for migration. If ...

Missing female swan -- Brenda -- 18 January 2015

Our hotel has raised 2 swans for 7 years. They occasionally come and go but for the very first time this weekend, the male returned with no sign of the female anywhere. He seems fine. The original ...

Re: Missing female swan -- The Regal Swan -- 18 January 2015

Hi Brenda Normally, the swans will stay together, especially if this is their normal pattern. As long as there are no predators in the area, she could survive on the river, just may not be able to ...

Re: Missing female swan -- Brenda -- 19 January 2015

We went farther down the river and I think we found the two swans together on the river by a riverside park area. We had done some landscaping construction here at the hotel this summer and disturbed ...

Re: Missing female swan -- The Regal Swan -- 19 January 2015

Hi Brenda Excellent news. As long as no predators can get to her, you could go ahead and let her nest. Or, if there are no eggs, go ahead and try to capture or lure them back to their area and put ...

Re: Missing female swan -- Brenda -- 21 January 2015

Thank you for your advice and feedback. We are going to build a nest for her and see if we can get her back to us. We will reach out again if we need more assistance.

Re: Missing female swan -- The Regal Swan -- 21 January 2015

You are welcome Brenda. Hopefully, this will work. Please let us know. The Regal Swan

Re: Missing female swan -- Brenda -- 26 January 2015

We are thinking sadly now that perhaps it was not the female that we saw on the River that day. He keeps coming back alone and we think something may have happen to her because they were inseparable ...

Re: Missing female swan -- The Regal Swan -- 26 January 2015

Hi Brenda If she is nesting in a new area and he remembers the old site and food, he will revisit the old site. If she is on eggs, she will not venture large distances. In fact, she will only leave ...

Re: Missing female swan -- Brenda -- 26 January 2015

Thank you. Well that is welcoming news! We will really miss her and we are praying nothing happened to her. He only comes back for short stints. I think he is going back to stay with her while she is ...

Re: Missing female swan -- The Regal Swan -- 27 January 2015

Hi Brenda: Please let us know if you see her again and if she has any cygnets. The Regal Swan

Re: Missing female swan -- Brenda -- 19 January 2015

Thank you. I will go and look for her during lunch. The male swan left again this morning and perhaps he is looking for her too.

Re: Missing female swan -- The Regal Swan -- 19 January 2015

Hi Brenda Please let us know if you find her. The Regal Swan

Black swan egg and black neck swan egg hatching with black neck swans -- Mohamd.muneer -- 18 January 2015

Dear sir I am asking that we have a Wings (Birds park) At World largest film studio at Hyderabad in India. so we have water birds like all kind of swans and ducks. in our park Black swans and black ...

Re: Black swan egg and black neck swan egg hatching with black neck swans -- The Regal Swan -- 18 January 2015

Hi We have never had a problem with Black Swans not incubating. There are two potential issues. One, the Black Swan pair are both female. Yes, they will still lay eggs in this pairing, but obviously ...

Signs of end stage of a swan's life? -- Kim -- 16 January 2015

We have a mated pair on our lake. We have been here 6 yrs, but the neighbor feeds them & thinks the female has been around for 20 yrs. The female has been alone for about 2 weeks. She would sleep ...

Re: Signs of end stage of a swan -- The Regal Swan -- 16 January 2015

Hi Kim This very well could be end of life, but unless the bird is examined, there are no guarantees. Wildlife will separate themselves from other members if something is wrong to prevent predators ...

Where do swans go when their pond freezes? -- Johanna -- 11 January 2015

Where do swans go when their pond freezes?

Re: Where do swans go when their pond freezes? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 January 2015

Hi Johanna Swans will look for nearby lakes and ponds that do not freeze in the nearby area. However, if all waterways freeze in the immediate area, they will migrate to warmer states southward. The ...

Two young -baby swans disappeared from lake over night -- Ari -- 8 January 2015

I live near private lake where there are two swans I visit for over 10 years. Each year they nest and with 1-2 surviving cygnets during first 6 months. Then, babies fly off,usually, by late November. ...

Re: Two young -baby swans disappeared from lake over night -- The Regal Swan -- 9 January 2015

Hi Arizona More than likely the young birds flew away to join their parents, and other swans for the winter migration. The parents, while teaching the cygnets to fly, also show them their habitat as ...

Re: Two young -baby swans disappeared from lake over night -- arizona -- 28 March 2015

Hello again. I have written you back in January about the disappearance of the 4 family swans over night. First the babies, second day-were no parents. I did not find back there any signs of fight ...

Re: Two young -baby swans disappeared from lake over night -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2015

Hi Arizona: The swans may be returning from their migratory trip and using this lake until the weather permanently warms. This is why you may be seeing different swans on the lake. Your swans should ...

Swans on frozen pond -- Casey -- 8 January 2015

Hi- I work in a building that keeps two Mute Swans on the property pond. My concern is the pond is slowly freezing over and these swans are still here (the wings are clipped) sleeping on the pond. ...

Re: Swans on frozen pond -- Becky -- 8 January 2015

Hi Casey and others with ponds that freeze. I notice our Lake Glen Mute Swans being very challenged by the parameters of our pond being frozen, which keeps them from their food box. They are very ...

Re: Swans on frozen pond -- The Regal Swan -- 8 January 2015

Hi Casey Swans are built for cold temperatures. Maybe, the freezing of the pond was a one time occurrence and nor a usual event. Even so, swans, especially in captive settings need shelter (i.e., ...

Embassy Suites Swans -- Anita -- 7 January 2015

What are the physical and mental effects of the swans living in the lobby of the Embassy Suites Hotels all over the country. I cannot imagine that this is healthy for the animals.

Re: Embassy Suites Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 7 January 2015

Hi Anita: We have actually addressed this issue prior to your post. Most people do not realize that swans in captive settings are captive bred. Swan behavior is actually compatible with this human ...

Female Black Australian Swan attached to me -- Dennis -- 6 January 2015

Hello, I live on a residential lake (houses around edges) about 80 acs in size. There are 4 Mute swans, 4 adult and 4 signet Australian Black swans, and 4 Trumpeter swans residing on the lake. the ...

Re: Female Black Australian Swan attached to me -- The Regal Swan -- 6 January 2015

Hi Dennis Yes, you have a swan that is imprinting on you. This means she is beginning to think that she is a human not a swan. This is cute at first, but will be very detrimental to the bird later. ...

Black Australian swan. Not eating -- Catrina -- 6 January 2015

We have had this swan for about 2 yrs an still not sure if it's male or female an it's not eating an is poop is yellowish an I don't have a vet near by to take it to.

Re: Black Australian swan. Not eating -- The Regal Swan -- 6 January 2015

Hi Catrina If a bird stops eating, it is a sign that something is very wrong. You need to find a bird/waterfowl/poultry vet that can exam the swan, diagnose the problem, which could be anything from ...

Only 1 swan on this small lake. No mate. Canadian geese prevalent -- Marilyn -- 2 January 2015

So concerned about this gigantic white swan. He/she is all alone, been here 2 was.. and stays in one area behind our house on Indianhead lake in Sherwood, Ar. Haven't called anyone, I.e. Game.e and ...

Re: Only 1 swan on this small lake. No mate. Canadian geese prevalent -- The Regal Swan -- 2 January 2015

Hi Maryland: This could be a young swan that was on the migratory path or chased from his habitat by his parents so that he does leave on the migratory path. He may have been blown off course and is ...

Mute Swan eats our Bermuda grass -- Matt -- 2 January 2015

Hi, I am located in Durham, North Carolina. I have a White Mute Swan on my golf course that we feed daily. Recently he has begun eating our dormant Bermuda grass lake bank. He is eating large chunks ...

Re: Mute Swan eats our Bermuda grass -- The Regal Swan -- 2 January 2015

Hi Matt: Swans are grazers just like other grazing animals such as rabbits, deer, cows. They need vegetation in their diet. Unfortunately, during the winter months, their primary source of vegetation ...

Young Swans, one disappeared last night -- Kelley -- 2 January 2015

Hi, we have had 2 young swans on our pond for several months now that we brought in as babies and waited until they were fully feathered to put them out onto the water because of coyotes. They are ...

Re: Young Swans, one disappeared last night -- The Regal Swan -- 2 January 2015

Hi Kelly: In any other situation, we would tell you to get another swan about the same age as your young swan. However, the problem is that we don't know what happened to your other swan. If it does ...

Swan behaving strangely -- Catherine -- 31 December 2014

https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=508297759309423 Hi, there is a swan in Princes park pond in eastbourne, he/she seems to be throwing himself under the water and tipping himself over, he may well ...

Re: Swan behaving strangely -- The Regal Swan -- 1 January 2015

Hi Catherine We cannot open your video, but what you are describing sounds like bathing behavior. For observers seeing this behavior for the first time, it appears that the swan is flailing and in ...

Where can i keep a swan -- Bailee -- 31 December 2014

i have always wanted swans, where should i keep them, is it possible to keep them in a pool, or do i have to build a pond and if so how big should the pond be. If i want females, do i have to get a ...

Re: Where can i keep a swan -- The Regal Swan -- 1 January 2015

Hi Bailey The first issue is if you need a state permit to keep them? The second issue will be if you are going to keep a mating pair? If your swans can produce cygnets (baby swans), then you have a ...

What is this behaviour? -- Aelise -- 30 December 2014

Hello: My male mute swan will sometimes make contact with his neck and head and sort of vibrate. He may also gently peck at you while he does this. Is it a greeting, low grade aggression/dominance or ...

Re: What is this behaviour? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 December 2014

Hi Aelise This is his way of showing affection. The low hum is his contentment with you. Will he allow you to pet him? If so, the gentle pecking is letting you know that he wants attention, i.e., ...

Re: What is this behaviour? -- Aelise -- 30 December 2014

Thanks for your reply. He will let me pet him, but he's not that keen on physical contact. I think it's the attention aspect you identified, since it often surrounds feeding time. The vibrating isn't ...

Re: What is this behaviour? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 December 2014

Hi AeLisa You are very welcome. Seems like he is in very good hands and loves his habitat and keeper. The Regal Swan

Door flap sticks to the swan feeder in freezing temperatures -- Claire -- 29 December 2014

Hello. I've had a pair of swans for 14 years on my 2 acre pond in Pennsylvania. In the winter I run two 1hp pumps to keep the water open. I have a plastic swan feeder on a pole at the end of my dock ...

Re: Door flap sticks to the swan feeder in freezing temperatures -- The Regal Swan -- 29 December 2014

Hi Claire Yes, we have used this type of feeder extensively, but not in freezing weather. One solution would be to take the flap completely off the feeder. The primary reasons for the flap are to ...

Reverse pinion surgery -- Anne -- 28 December 2014

Is there any way to reverse the pinion procedure? Anne

Re: Reverse pinion surgery -- The Regal Swan -- 28 December 2014

Hi Anne No, pinioning involves the complete amputation of the portion of the wing responsible for flight. In many states, Mute Swans or other captive swans must be pinioned or the swan owner fined ...

Swan in water for 2 weeks -- Betty -- 28 December 2014

One of our swans left her lake migrating to another close lake but she hasn't been out of the water for 2 weeks. She is eating well and can fly and nothing is keeping her from getting out. Should we ...

Re: Swan in water for 2 weeks -- The Regal Swan -- 28 December 2014

Hi Betty She should be ok, but just to be safe, we would send a boat out to make sure she does not have some injury to a wing or other body part preventing her from flying. Swans need to get out of ...

Lone Trumpeter Swan in inland pond -- Margaret -- 26 December 2014

I live in Niagara County in New York state. My neighbor has a large pond (small lake) on his property. For the past 3 days I have observed a lone trumpeter swan on the pond. What, if anything, should ...

Re: Lone Trumpeter Swan in inland pond -- The Regal Swan -- 27 December 2014

Hi Margaret: We're not sure who to call or if there needs to be anything done. Here is the problem. You have probably been hearing about the fight in New York to save the Mute Swans. The reasoning ...

Re: Lone Trumpeter Swan in inland pond -- rork -- 3 January 2015

There is a story being perpetuated about 1+1=2 as well. Shocking, I know. I live in MI, and mute swan decrease in order to help increase our native trumpeter swan, the one's which we are responsible ...

Re: Lone Trumpeter Swan in inland pond -- The Regal Swan -- 3 January 2015

Hi Rork: We do not have a problem with Michigan or other states having Trumpeter Swans. What we protest against is the misrepresentation and hoax perpetuated on the taxpayers, media and politicians ...

Single swan left behind..winter -- Brian -- 20 December 2014

Hello my job is located on a pond/lake in Massachusetts. The lake was full of ducks, geese, and swans all summer and fall. Between the adult swans and all their babies, there was 19 of them. When the ...

Re: Single swan left behind..winter -- Angie -- 26 December 2014

Hello Brian, I read your post RE: the swan left behind. I live in a state that gets very cold as well. I have lived on a lake all of my life, and it freezes throughout the winter. We have had a ...

Re: Single swan left behind..winter -- The Regal Swan -- 21 December 2014

Hi Brian: No, this is not normal and if the pond freezes, the swan could drown, be attacked by a predator accessing the bird on the frozen ice, or die from dehydration, pneumonia, starvation and ...

Re: Single swan left behind..winter -- Brian -- 23 December 2014

He seems pretty friendly, I've thrown him some bread and hes come semi close.. but I dont think he would come close enough for me to catch him. Does anyone know of any place in Massachusetts that ...

Re: Single swan left behind..winter -- The Regal Swan -- 23 December 2014

Hi Brian Unfortunately, we don't know anyone in Massachusetts. With the killing of swans in various states, you need to be careful who you ask for help. Keep feeding him, kneeling as you feed him. ...

Re: Single swan left behind..winter -- Anne -- 28 December 2014

Brian, I live on the Water in MA and we have a mute swan that has been on the water alone for the past two winters. She can't fly. I feed and care for her and if you want to transport your swan here ...

Re: Single swan left behind..winter -- The Regal Swan -- 28 December 2014

Hi Anne This is excellent news. We hope you and Brian can work this out. We're sure the swan will get a great home with your care. The Regal Swan

Swans crossing road at night -- Jen -- 15 December 2014

Hi, the other night at 10:30 I was driving home and saw two swans in the middle of the road. They live on a pond right there, the road is actually in the middle of two ponds. I assumed they were ...

Re: Swans crossing road at night -- The Regal Swan -- 15 December 2014

Hi Jen There could be any number of reasons, but the two most probable is that something or someone is chasing them from the pond. It is migratory season and time for swans, especially the young from ...

Male mute cygnet going to Bob Knox! -- Meagan -- 11 December 2014

Thank you for helping! Cyggy ships out monday to go live with bob knox. I am so relived that some people care. Thank you so much!

Re: Male mute cygnet going to Bob Knox! -- The Regal Swan -- 11 December 2014

Hi Meagan You are very welcome. Bob will give him a great home. The Regal Swan

Home needed for male mute cygnet -- Meagan -- 10 December 2014

Home needed for male mute cygnet. Rescued at a day old he imprinted and was raised with the chickens and turkeys. Ive gone kayaking with him a lot ( he rides in the front of my truck in a open ...

Re: Home needed for male mute cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 11 December 2014

HI Meagan We're not sure where you are located, but I have spoken with Bob Knox of Knox Swan and Dogs. 847 875 3947. Please contact him as Bob has plenty of swans and open water which will provide ...

I am looking for a pair of swans to live in Michigan -- Gib -- 13 December 2014

I want to get a pair of swans to live on our lake in Sears mich. Thanks in advance. gib

Re: I am looking for a pair of swans to live in Michigan -- The Regal Swan -- 13 December 2014

Hi Gib Unfortunately, you cannot have swans without a permit, and even then, the Michigan DNR is killing the Mute Swans in Michigan. They claim that the swans are non-native and invasive which is a ...

Winter Shelter for Mute Swans (Missouri) -- Elizabeth -- 9 December 2014

We have a pair of mute swans approximately 6 years old on a lake in Missouri. We have a fountain to keep water open during the winter months, but I am wondering if we need to build some type of ...

Re: Winter Shelter for Mute Swans (Missouri) -- The Regal Swan -- 10 December 2014

Hi Elizabeth As long as you keep a large section of the pond unfrozen, they should be fine. Swans will not willfully use any lean-to or over hang type shelter. If your pond has an island, you can ...

Trumpeter Swans in FL: How to tell if the birds are captive or not -- John -- 8 December 2014

Hello, I saw these two guys on a canal in Wellington, Palm Beach Co., FL this morning. Is there any way to check if they could be captive birds and not wild? If wild, it would be a very unusual ...

Re: Trumpeter Swans in FL: How to tell if the birds are captive or not -- The Regal Swan -- 8 December 2014

Hi John These are definitely captured birds as the wings appear to be pinioned. If you look at the short feathers on the side toward the tail, you will see that the feathers (flight feathers) are not ...

Adult swans leaving young -- Gill -- 1 December 2014

In october the female swan flew off leaving her two cygnets with the male. Two weeks later the male also flew off leaving the cygnets. Neither has returned. There are no other swan families on the ...

Re: Adult swans leaving young -- The Regal Swan -- 1 December 2014

Hi Gill No, this does not sound normal. The parents may eventally return, but if they do not, the cygnets may not learn the migratory path or be able to protect themselves in severe weather. If you ...

Swan Nest House -- William -- 1 December 2014

We have a flock of 15-18 swans on a large pond on our land, but the flock seems to be shrinking rather than reproducing. We think this is because predators - raccoons, possums, snakes, etc. -- are ...

Re: Swan Nest House -- The Regal Swan -- 1 December 2014

Hi William We're not sure what species of bird you have, but unless the swans swam through something blue in color, there is no swan species with blue wingtips. Do you have a photo that you could ...

Mute Swan Communication -- Melanie -- 1 December 2014

The resident male swan where i live and who i feed makes a noise that sounds similar to a motor bike. He puts his head up, makes like a barking noise then there's a short pause, then he does the ...

Re: Mute Swan Communication -- The Regal Swan -- 1 December 2014

Hi Melanie Cygnets actually make a peeping sound (non stop) which alerts the mother swan know the location of the cygnets at all times and if they are okay. The sharper or more piercing the peep ...

Regular night flight -- Chrissie -- 30 November 2014

The swan family we have been helping now fly away during the day ( not a good area for food ), they normally return at dusk, when we feed them. Recently they have been absent but around again in the ...

Re: Regular night flight -- The Regal Swan -- 30 November 2014

Hi Chrissie: The swans are getting older and stretching their wings and their exploring habitat. Even though mom is still with them at this time, eventually the majority of the family will eventually ...

Rescued swan -- Kelly -- 24 November 2014

I found a swan in my backyard this past weekend and since we have never had them I was worried he may be wounded. After some investigation I was able to determine he was slightly injured, it appeared ...

Re: Rescued swan -- The Regal Swan -- 24 November 2014

Hi Kelly Please send your contact phone number to this website administrator (you can post it, it won't be published online, the administrator will send it to me only). We will try to get someone to ...

Male swans killing others -- John -- 23 November 2014

I have a pair of white and a pair of black swans on a 1 acre pond. the male white swan attacked the black so bad it couldnt eat or go near the water. I removed the black pair then the whites hatched ...

Re: Male swans killing others -- The Regal Swan -- 23 November 2014

Hi John: We would recommend that YOU NOT add any more swans to this mix. Something is wrong with the habitat (lack of food or shelter resources), or something else that the male Mute Swan is ...

Do Swans Return to Where They Were Born? -- Brenda -- 21 November 2014

Our 2 swans were born here but for the past several years after having babies, they now go across the River where they raise the babies and return in the Fall. This year they had 7 babies on Easter ...

Re: Do Swans Return to Where They Were Born? -- The Regal Swan -- 21 November 2014

Hi Brenda Swans usually return to the same vicinity of their hatching. However, if the parents claim a certain area, then the returning juveniles will be deterred from nesting too closely. If there ...

Sleep swimming? -- G -- 14 November 2014

Do swans sleep swim? I saw a swan in the water with its head down in its wing but it was moving in a circle in a way that looked like it was paddling with one foot.

Re: Sleep swimming? -- The Regal Swan -- 14 November 2014

Hi Yes, what you describe is normal sleeping/resting behavior on the water. The swan is safe from land predators, can stay cool in the water and yet, still be alert to any problems within the ...

At what age do baby swans leave parents? -- Diana -- 11 November 2014

There are 2 swans on my pond that had 2 babies in the spring. Both babies disappeared in October and I have not seen them since. Their feathers were just starting to turn white. I am wondering what ...

Re: At what age do baby swans leave parents? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 November 2014

Hi Diana Cygnets usually begin leaving the habitat when they begin to turn their eventual adult coloring. Once the feathers and wings mature (approximately 8-10 months of age) the parents will no ...

Where to place a black swan (CT) -- Patricia -- 10 November 2014

Hi, I am not sure if I am contacting the Stanley Park in Westfield Ma. or not but I am going to ask anyway. I am down to one swan which is the Australian Black. We had a pair and a pair of mute ...

Re: Where to place a black swan (CT) -- The Regal Swan -- 10 November 2014

Hi Patricia Black Swans do not do well in cold weather. We also do not know of anyone who might want your swan in Connecticut. We did ask Bob Knox at Knox Swan and Dog in Illinois if he would give ...

Black-neck Swan not waterproof? -- Magriet -- 10 November 2014

Our Black-neck swan is all of a sudden not waterproof. It was in the water but we could see her feathers were all wet and green from algea. She was also shivering. We took her out of the water to ...

Re: Black-neck Swan not waterproof? -- The Regal Swan -- 10 November 2014

Hi Magriet: The inability to waterproof itself by a swan is a sign that something is definitely wrong. Swans can not only drown, but get chilled and develop a cold, pneumonia or other serious ...

Mute swans in Michigan: Do I need a permit? -- Theresa -- 5 November 2014

I have 7 Mute Swans. I bought them in Ohio. I live in Michigan. My question is do I have to get a Permit to own them. Is it illegal to have Mute Swans as pets in Michigan.

Re: Mute swans in Michigan: Do I need a permit? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 November 2014

Hi Theresa More than likely you need a permit. There is also the possibility that Michigan DNR will kill them as their goal is to kill all of them based upon no scientific research. Yet, their goal ...

Observation of adults and juveniles behaviours -- Jérôme -- 5 November 2014

Hello, i have to do a 4 hours observation on a family of mute swans (1 pair and their 4 juvéniles), i search wich behaviours can occurs between adults and juvéniles, and how to recognize that ...

Re: Observation of adults and juveniles behaviours -- The Regal Swan -- 5 November 2014

Hi Jerome: There isn't much difference between how adult swans behave as opposed to their cygnets. Just think of you and your parents. You both have the same behavior because you are humans, just a ...

Swan Breeders in Oklahoma -- Susan -- 3 November 2014

I noticed in a previous thread where you mentioned knowing of the existence of swan breeders iin Oklahoma. I am looking for any information on that subject. I am looking for a couple of swans to ...

Re: Swan Breeders in Oklahoma -- The Regal Swan -- 3 November 2014

Hi Susan Yes if you are located near Oklahoma, the breeder's name is Ken Howell. However, if you are located in the northeast, the closest breeder would be Bob Knox out of Illinois: (847) 875-3947. ...

Stuck Swan -- Rhiannon -- 3 November 2014

I've noticed a swan swimming around the basin where we live for three days now. It's got high walls on three sides and a ledge on the other which is quite high. (I've attached pictures). I'm worried ...

Re: Stuck Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 3 November 2014

Hi Rhianon The basin looks safe enough, but the issues are is there enough food for the bird and is there any area that it can get out to dry itself. If either of these are answered by no, then it is ...

Number of Swan a 3 acre pond can support? -- Lisa -- 2 November 2014

I will be purchasing a pair of mute swans and their 5 mo cygnet in November and would appreciate some tips on how to best prepare for them. When the parents push away their cygnet at mating season, ...

Re: Number of Swan a 3 acre pond can support? -- The Regal Swan -- 3 November 2014

Hi Lisa: Your setting is gorgeous and it could technically support up to 6 swans. However, we would not recommend this as each pair are going to have cygnets and then you are going to have a major ...

Re: Number of Swan a 3 acre pond can support? -- Lisa -- 3 November 2014

Thank you so much for the lengthy response. This is good information for me. We plan to bloodtest the cygnet at transfer so we know what sex it is. Then we will just watch to see how they get along ...

Where to place swans for the winter (VA) -- Leticia -- 1 November 2014

I joined a committee in our neighborhood HOAs. We have two Swans that were purchased to chase the geese away.. Looking for a place to care for them for the winter; I guess the place where they were ...

Re: Where to place swans for the winter (VA) -- The Regal Swan -- 1 November 2014

Hi Leticia: We are not familiar with any facility that might house the swans for the winter. Have you checked with a waterfowl/wildlife rehabilitation center, zoo, or a private farm that might have ...

Re: Where to place swans for the winter (VA) -- Katrina -- 3 December 2014

I am certainly not the expert here but I also live in Virginia and I have swans that I am able to keep on our pond all winter and they actually do fine. The key is keeping their water open for them. ...

Re: Where to place swans for the winter (VA) -- Lynne -- 4 December 2014

Hi Katrina, I live on a lake in New Jersey with one swan. The female was hit by a car last year leaving the male alone. Foxes tried to get him when the lake froze with the horrible winter last year. ...

Re: Where to place swans for the winter (VA) -- Katrina -- 13 December 2014

Hello Lynne, I bought the smallest size sump pump at lowes so you really could get larger to move more water if you wanted. The pump is in the bottom of bucket with a piece of PVC pipe coming off of ...

Re: Where to place swans for the winter (VA) -- Lynne -- 16 December 2014

Hi Katrina, Thank you for your response. Our pond is shallow so I think the pump would just suck muck. But we have installed 3 aeration systems in a large circle and hope this will keep open enough ...

How to Capture young swans on my lake -- Jack -- 30 October 2014

Last year I lost the two young swans when parents drove them over the dam and off the lake. We found remains later after critter got them. My 5 acre lake is surrounded on all sides with trees and ...

Re: How to Capture young swans on my lake -- The Regal Swan -- 30 October 2014

Hi Jack: If you can get them to feed from your hand and someone else's, you can reach down, gently grab them by their necks and wings. You will only have once chance at this, because they will get ...

swan in my backyard -- Alexandra -- 30 October 2014

Hello I found a swan in my backyard - in my pool that was half full - the swan I think could not get out, so I filled up the pool with water again; now the swan is out of the pool but has stayed in ...

Re: swan in my backyard -- The Regal Swan -- 30 October 2014

Hi Alexandra: Do you have a gate to the fence? If you can get a group of friends, stand behind the swan and walk him to the fence. Make sure that there are people on the outside of the fence that ...

Protecting Wild Swans (Texas) -- Virginia -- 29 October 2014

For decades there have been wild swans that successfully nested on Lady Bird Lake in Austin Texas, but for the last 4 years all nests of the pairs have been unsuccessful in producing any babies - 4 ...

Re: Protecting Wild Swans (Texas) -- The Regal Swan -- 29 October 2014

Hi Virginia: Unfortunately, this same scenario is being played out across the world as water recreationalists ignore and sometimes intentionally disrupt wildlife and their habitats for the sake of ...

Cygnets left alone -- Karen -- 28 October 2014

Hello, I live in the west coast of Scotland. Two swans nest here from march to October every year. The tow adults have now left but the 7 cygnets seem to be wandering around aimlessly. They wander ...

Re: Cygnets left alone -- The Regal Swan -- 28 October 2014

Hi Karen The parents may have had something happen to them or left for migration without the cygnets. This would be strange, but could happen. In any case, the young birds wI'll not make it through ...

Swan not chasing geese any longer -- Lawrence -- 27 October 2014

We have 2 white swans on the lake. The male has successfully been driving out geese for about 5 years. This year, though, he seems disinterested after a large flock of geese landed on the lake a ...

Re: Swan not chasing geese any longer -- The Regal Swa -- 27 October 2014

Hi Lawrence: Even though predators could be the cause of the loss of the cygnets this year, more than likely it was the severe inconsistent spring temperatures. We have heard that many swans and ...

Swans in upstate ny on a pond -- Mat -- 26 October 2014

I live in upstate ny and have a 15 acre pond that had geese on it. Today 4 swans appeared. 2 white and 2 darker colored ones. Is this common do I need to do anything

Re: Swans in upstate ny on a pond -- The Regal Swan -- 26 October 2014

Hi Mat: You are seeing two parents and 2 juveniles (cygnets from this year) swans on the migratory path to their wintering grounds. Unless your pond is extremely warm and does not freeze and your ...

2 blk swans in pond (with fountain) who no longer swim, almost never go in water, stay on the grass -- Suzanne -- 23 October 2014

It seems so unnatural as though they have been traumatized by having the fountain put in (& lit at night by the condo board that we live in)... what can be done?

Re: 2 blk swans in pond (with fountain) who no longer swim, almost never go in water, stay on the gr -- The Regal Swan -- 23 October 2014

Hi Suzanne Someone needs to feed the swans and get them back in the water even if it means slightly harassing them so they seek shelter in the water. If you can toss food such as cracked corn, ...

Blackneck swan spends nights indoors and cold days outdoors -- Jim -- 23 October 2014

Have a blackneck swan that I have raised from birth in my home. BIG PET! He is 6 months old and stays in my home at night. HAS HIS OWN ROOM. We love him to death. Gets along with my 3 house dogs. He ...

Re: Blackneck swan spends nights indoors and cold days outdoors -- The Regal Swan -- 23 October 2014

Hi Jim Because Black-Necked Swans are from South America, they are very susceptible to cold weather. They live in warm weather habitats so keeping him during cold winters indoors is great idea. ...

Black swans attack us -- Maryanne -- 17 October 2014

We have had our two black male swans since February. They were very friendly but about September they have been attacking us when we feed them or go anywhere near our pond. Is there anything we can ...

Re: Black swans attack us -- The Regal Swan -- 19 October 2014

Hi Maryanne: Yes, you have two options: You need to stop running from the swans. Establish yourself as the alpha swan and capture the two swans each time they chase you. Yell, NO and then gently grab ...

Mute swans and fairly fledged, but still mostly grey, cygnets -- Beth -- 16 October 2014

There are a pair of mute swans that successfully hatched and fairly fledged three cygnets. However, now only two of the cygnet, still mostly grey but flying, remain with the parents. I despaired that ...

Re: Mute swans and fairly fledged, but still mostly grey, cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 16 October 2014

Hi Beth: Sometimes, the parents will oust the cygnets once they turn white in color. At that time, the cygnets become rivals and the parents no longer view them as their cygnets. This is just nature. ...

The care of pinioned swans -- Tonya -- 12 October 2014

Hello, We purchased two pinioned swans from an Amish breeder in northeast pa. Unfortunately we r not able to get very much information on their care? We have a large 1.5 acre pond but winter is ...

Re: The care of pinioned swans -- The Regal Swan -- 12 October 2014

Hi Tonya: When our first book went into backorder, the price went to a ridiculous price . That is why we authored an updated publication that provides the exact answers that swan owners and keepers ...

Attracting swans -- Sheri -- 11 October 2014

Hello...I work with an enormous retirement community in southern Ontario. We are on 45 hectares and have 13 extremely large spring fed pond (almost mini lakes). Currently we rent 2 mute swans per ...

Re: Attracting swans -- The Regal Swan -- 12 October 2014

Hi Sheri: There are several reasons that you may not be having success with your Mute Swan breeding. If the habitats cannot support more swans, i.e., lack of food resources, pollution, lack of ...

Leaving the young ones behind -- Jodi -- 11 October 2014

I have two swans that live in my bay all summer. Every year they have two to five young ones and one night in late September they go for their evening swim and only the parents come back. How do they ...

Re: Leaving the young ones behind -- The Regal Swan -- 12 October 2014

Hi Jodi: Once the cygnets reach 6-8 months of age, their feathers and wings are fully developed so they can fly. Once this occurs, the juvenile swans are also large enough to protect themselves from ...

Swan behavior, normal or worrisome? -- Jennifer -- 10 October 2014

Kayak on the river and I'm familiar with lots of different words. Today there was a swan floating alone with his head resting on his back in the middle of the river. He didn't move when I paddled ...

Can swans take over another swans eggs or young -- Sahara -- 9 October 2014

ok i know this is going to sound a little crazy but i cant figure this out. i dont know if this is normal or if swans steal other swans eggs but here goes. There have been a pair of swans Sheba and ...

Parent swans kill their own young -- Susan -- 8 October 2014

My friend just called me regarding swans she has been feeding - the parents attacked and killed their own young swan. Why would this happen?

Re: Parent swans kill their own young -- The Regal Swan -- 10 October 2014

Hi Susan: There could be several reasons. If the parents are new parents, they may not understand having something so little hang around them and they may react accordingly. If there is something ...

Winter -- Irina -- 8 October 2014

I have 3 swans and the winter is coming... At what temperature they should stay indoor? And also, can they stay on land all winter? The temperature here is aprox -15 Celsius...

Re: Winter -- The Regal Swan -- 10 October 2014

Hi Irina: If you can keep the swans indoors during severe winters, it will be better for the swans in that an indoor shelter will protect them from predators, drowning, and susceptibility to disease ...

Winter Survival -- Lynne -- 8 October 2014

I am not sure if you remember but I wrote last year after our female swan was struck by a car and killed on an elevated bridge some 60 feet above the lake. Our 3 year old male was left alone and was ...

Re: Winter Survival -- The Regal Swan -- 10 October 2014

Hi Lynne: If you can keep him fed and in an area of at least 20-30 feet in circumference, the predators should not be able to reach him and he should be safe. However, there are still no guarantees ...

Leg bands -- Jeanne -- 3 October 2014

What types of bands do you use on adult mute swans and do you have a place where they can be purchased.

Female mute swans -- Kelly -- 2 October 2014

Will two female mute swans live ok together?

Concerned by the smashing of swan eggs -- Kara -- 1 October 2014

Hi, a general man in my neighborhood goes around our lakes and smashes the swan eggs. I do believe they are tundra swans. I do also believe he smashes Canadian geese eggs too... I live in North ...

Re: Concerned by the smashing of swan eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 2 October 2014

Hi Kara There are several issues to this situation: 1. Who owns the swans? Did the development purchase the swans and are they sanctioning the smashing as a means of numbers control? 2. Are the swans ...

Dirty water -- Chrissie -- 1 October 2014

Hi, been feeding and caring for swan family since May, the dad was killed, exhausted from fighting off a rogue swan he was on the bank and the fox got him, such a brave beautiful swan we are ...

Re: Dirty water -- The Regal Swan -- 1 October 2014

Hi Chrissie We're sorry to hear about the male parent. Unfortunately, the rest of the family is going to be in jeopardy if you do not get them out of the stagnant water. They can be poisoned or ...

Vegetation and wayward swan -- Meagan -- 28 September 2014

Why does our swan fly into the neighbors field and what kind o vegetation besides clover do they eat. Its a white mute swan

Re: Vegetation and wayward swan -- The Regal Swan -- 29 September 2014

Hi Megan All swans are grazing birds. They eat both aquatic and land vegetation. Rye grass, alfalfa, corn and maybe even clover if it is the right kind will serve as a vegetative food resource for ...

Mute swan leg injury from snapping turtle -- Liz -- 27 September 2014

I have a pair of wild mute swans on my pond. They have returned for 8 years to nest and raise young. About a month ago the male was "crying" and when I looked there was a snapping turtle ...

Re: Mute swan leg injury from snapping turtle -- The Regal Swan -- 27 September 2014

Hi Liz Usually, we would suggest getting him to a veterinarian. However, since he is wild and can fly, the only way to effect a capture would be on land. Since he can only take a few steps on land, ...

Can salt change the feathers of swan babies -- skip dawson -- 27 September 2014

Hi we have 2 pure white very large swans with bright orange beaks. This spring the had 3 babies. They now are full grown and as large as the parents. How can they have one pure white with orange ...

Re: Can salt change the feathers of swan babies -- The Regal Swan -- 27 September 2014

Hi Skip You have two color variations. To swan keepers, they are known as Royal Mutes-cygnets are taupe in color with black feet or Polish Mutes (leucistic coloration) where the cygnets are white in ...

Swan's reflection in a mirrored window makes swan pluck its feathers -- Dianna -- 24 September 2014

Where I work we have a swan family, one of the adults has been obsessed with its reflection in a mirrored window. He/she is plucking its feathers from its neck and it is starting to look raw. He/she ...

Re: Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 24 September 2014

Hi Dianna Yes, you need to contact the swan's caretaker. Two things must then be done. First, the swan needs to be examined by an experienced bird/waterfowl veterinarian. The veterinarian may need to ...

Whooper Swan Problem: Severe Limp, loss of appetite, lethargic -- Hannah -- 23 September 2014

Hello, I wonder if you can help?! I have a female Whooper Swan with a severe limp, its her left leg. She has been to the vets, had x-rays, scans all sorts of things and we've been told there isn't ...

Re: Whooper Swan Problem: Severe Limp, loss of appetite, lethargic -- The Regal Swan -- 23 September 2014

Hi Hannah There could be any number of issues from lead, botulinum or other poisoning, to soft tissue injury from another swan, predator or sprain from entering or exiting the water. She may be in ...

My swan tries to kill me -- Lori -- 19 September 2014

Can you please tell me what I can do to keep my swan from attacking me everyday. Everyday I go out to feed him (he is the only swan) and the ducks and it is as if I am going in to combat planning my ...

Lost swan -- Katrina -- 18 September 2014

I have had a pair of adult mute swans kept on my pond for about a year. We feed them daily and assure for their safety. What we didn't do correctly was clip their wings. Last week they took flight. ...

Feeding kid swan by its mother -- Ramya -- 17 September 2014

hi sir, i want to know how the mother swan feeds its kids.. can i get some pictures of this.. waiting for your reply..

Re: Feeding kid swan by its mother -- The Regal Swan -- 17 September 2014

Hi Ramya Birds fall into two basic groups-precocial (hatched with feathers and basically able to leave the nest within a few days) or altricial (hatched with no feathers, unable to leave the nest for ...

3 month old cygnets were separated from their parents at 1 week -- Andrew -- 16 September 2014

I have come into possession of 2 three-month-old cygnets. Their parents have been on a large college campus pond for 10 years. They were born June 2, making them 15 weeks old today. At 1 week old, ...

Re: 3 month old cygnets were separated from their parents at 1 week -- The Regal Swan -- 16 September 2014

Hi Andrew Unfortunately, this experiment is one that may not end successfully. First, the cygnets should never have been taken from the parents because they will no longer will accept them in fact, ...

Update on Alaskan trumpeter swan family -- Shirley -- 11 September 2014

Hello, this is Shirley from Valdez, A.K. I wrote you on Sept. 2nd about a family of trumpeter swans that lost the adult male due to a car accident. I am very upset tonight, Mom was doing a wonderful ...

Re: Update on Alaskan trumpeter swan family -- The Regal Swan -- 12 September 2014

Hi Shirley Since the Trumpeters are a protected species, contact your local wildlife agency or a wildlife rehabilitation center. They may be able to capture the cygnets, hold them safely for the ...

Do swans fly? -- karen -- 9 September 2014

In a local pond in a full grown swan just appeared one day ,have seen everyday for a couple of month. The swan is always solo. How did it get there? Do swans fly? I have never seen one flying. We ...

Re: Do swans fly? -- The Regal Swan -- 10 September 2014

Hi Karen Yes swans fly. This may be a juvenile bird whose parents have told it to get lost and it is looking for its own habitat or mate. It may also be using your pond as a stopover on the migratory ...

Male mute Swan lost feathers, can't fly, can't defend territory -- Melanie -- 8 September 2014

Hello. I am lucky enough to live opposite a river where a family of mute swans live. male, female, 8 cygnets which i think are around 5-6 months old now. They are staring to turn white. A couple of ...

Re: Male mute Swan lost feathers, can't defend territory -- The Regal Swan -- 8 September 2014

Hi Melanie It will be some time for the feathers to return. In the meantime, contact Wendy Hermon at Swan Lifeline in Eton. Advise her about the situation. She may be able to relocate the new male so ...

How to stop swan from laying eggs -- Nad -- 6 September 2014

Hi I have a father-daughter pair of black swans. She keeps laying eggs and I keep removing them as I was told that it's not a good genetic combination. If I let her sit on one egg, hatch it out and ...

Re: How to stop swan from laying eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 7 September 2014

Hi Nad You have been given some misinformation. First, close bird relatives mating is not the same as mating defects or abnormalities which usually can occur in mammals. We have seen siblings mate ...

Black swan's feathers always look wet and bedraggled -- Trevor -- 6 September 2014

I have a black swan that has been with us for five years. Now he looks unhealthy. His feathers always look wet and bedraggled. can you give me any advice please Best regards Trevor

Re: Black swan -- The Regal Swan -- 7 September 2014

Hi Trevor You need to get him to a waterfow/bird veterinarian. He may have an infection, parasites or something else going on that keeps him from keeping his feathers tidy. If he cannot keep dry or ...

Mute swan won't lay eggs -- Sajila -- 4 September 2014

Dear, I live in Kerala, India. 2 months back i bought 12 mute swans, it is the cygnets of 1 pen and cub. now the almost all the swans are in same size. they are not having wild behaviour. i have made ...

Re: Mute swan won -- The Regal Swan -- 5 September 2014

Hi Sajila: First, the cygnets may not be old enough to lay eggs. Secondly, you may not have both males and females. Were they checked for gender by a licensed veterinarian experienced in waterfowl ...

Swan with fishing line and bobber stuck to his foot -- Anne -- 4 September 2014

This evening I saw a swan with fishing line and bobber stuck to his foot in the water outside a restaurant by the name of "Peter's Clam Bar". The address is 600 Long Beach Road, Island ...

Re: Swan with fishing line and bobber stuck to his foot -- The Regal Swan -- 5 September 2014

Hi Anne We have some contact info for you. Please send your email address to this post. The Web administrator will provide you with contact info for getting some help to the swan. The Regal Swan

How far will the swans go after leaving the nest? -- Cindy -- 3 September 2014

Hi, we have a family of swans down at our local waterfront. The mom/dad had six babies this yr and they were around for a couple of months for all to see. Now, it appears the family may have gone ...

Re: How far will the swans go after leaving the nest? -- The Regal Swan -- 3 September 2014

Hi Cindy: It is time for migration so hopefully, the swans will migrate south for the winter and return once again in spring. You may or may not see the cygnets in the springtime as the parents may ...

Alaskan Trumpet Swans: Will they migrate without the male swan? -- Shirley -- 2 September 2014

We have a pond close to our home where two swans have returned to for many years to nest and raise their cygnets until it's time to migrate. Last week, unfortunately the male was hit on the road and ...

Re: Alaskan Trumpet Swans: Will they migrate without the male swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 3 September 2014

Hi Shirley: We’re sorry to hear about the male parent. However, animals and birds grieve differently than humans. They will not stop eating, bathing, mating or flying because something happened to ...

Swollen throat (swollen ball on the underside of her beak) -- Michael -- 1 September 2014

Hi, i have a female trumpeter swan that has just developed over the past week a bit of a swollen ball on the underside of her beak nearest to her neck. it is the size of a large marble. Any ideas as ...

Re: Swollen throat (swollen ball on the underside of her beak) -- The Regal Swan -- 1 September 2014

Hi Michael Yes, this could be life-threatening so you need her examined by a veterinarian immediately. The marble could be an infection or something she swallowed which can prevent her from eating. ...

Swan aggression on new swan -- Marty -- 31 August 2014

Our male swan died last winter in very cold NE Ohio. Our breeder sold us a young male that we added to our pond this month. The female (well-established for at least the last 5-6 years) has been very ...

Re: Swan aggression on new swan -- The Regal Swan -- 1 September 2014

Hi Marty She is not going to hurt him, but he may suffer some stress from being constantly chased and pecked. If the two swans have been together for several weeks, the behavior should cease, ...

Caring for rescued cygnet -- Lesley -- 29 August 2014

Hi. I am writing from New Zealand. I rescued a week old cygnet from a local park a week ago. He/she had a damaged foot, was not able to follow its parents well and when it did catch up they stomped ...

Re: Caring for rescued cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 29 August 2014

Hi Lesley You seem to be doing exactly what needs to be done for the young bird. You were correct in rescuing the cygnet as it probably would not have survived. Keep him in a warm container with a ...

Swan behavior: Is swan with wings resting on the water in distress? -- Patti -- 29 August 2014

I was by a lake with three swans on it, most likely Trumpeters. One of the swans, that appeared to be mostly white with a little grey on the head and neck, had its wings spread out to either side, ...

Re: Swan behavior: Is swan with wings resting on the water in distress? -- The Regal Swan -- 29 August 2014

Hi Patti It is hard to tell from the photo without seeing the full context of how the wings are being used. Swans exhibit this behavior if they are: bathing and trying to get the wings and body wet, ...

Cygnet can't get up -- Scott -- 26 August 2014

We have a pair of 4mth old mute swans. We have had them for about 6 weeks and they have been doing really well until a few days ago. The one swan is having great difficulty getting to a standing ...

Re: Cygnet can -- The Regal Swan -- 26 August 2014

Hi Scott This could be any number of conditions from fungal, bacterial or viral infection to a nutritional deficit or poisoning. All can cause neurological problems. A leg or foot injury could also ...

Swan Divorce -- Vicki -- 23 August 2014

We have a pair of swans that have had several successful nests. This year none of the eggs hatched successfully. Yesterday, the swans separated and she will not have anything to do with the male. Is ...

Re: Swan Divorce -- The Regal Swan -- 23 August 2014

Hi Vicki This is normal behavior. They both are tired of watching the nest and the mother has lost approximately 30% of her energy resources. She needs to eat and regain energy. This is her main ...

Baby swan rests his leg on his back -- Karon -- 22 August 2014

What does it mean when a baby swan rests his leg on his back while he is remains still and travelling? There is a baby swan in our bay that has been rejected by his family. This poor swan had fishing ...

Re: Baby swan rests his leg on his back -- The Regal Swan -- 22 August 2014

Hi Karon: If he was not exhibiting the foot on the back while he was entangled with the fishing line, this is a good sign. In fact, this is actually normal behavior. Scientists believe that unlike a ...

Tracking Cygnet Growth -- Andy -- 19 August 2014

Is there a resource that would be useful in tracking the growth of cygnets from birth to full maturity? We have three 2.5 month old cygnets and I would like to track their growth (length, weight, ...

Re: Tracking Cygnet Growth -- The Regal Swan -- 19 August 2014

Hi Andy: Yes, the resource is The Regal Swan Foundation's research. Our research team followed Mute Swan cygnets from the time that they hatched until they reached the age of 6 months of age. The ...

Weak Cygnet Shunned by parents -- George -- 18 August 2014

The breeding pair on our lake had a six cygnets that are pretty big now, but recently one died and another is shunned by the family. The cygnet is able to walk up and into our backyard and seems to ...

Re: Weak Cygnet Shunned by parents -- The Regal Swan -- 18 August 2014

Hi George There is something wrong with the cygnet for the parents to shun it. If it cannot walk correctly, it can invite a predator to attack it and the young swan can lead the predator to the rest ...

Adding female swan to existing two male swans -- Duke -- 17 August 2014

We have two male mute swans on our 7 acre pond can we add a female without causing a lot of problems. Also would a house be of use for winter and nesting. Thanks

Re: Adding female swan to existing two male swans -- The Regal Swan -- 17 August 2014

Hi Duke We would recommend leaving the situation as is. To add a female is going to force a rivalry between the two males and one or both could be seriously hurt or killed. They will get along just ...

Do swans re-mate after the death of a partner? -- Kendall -- 15 August 2014

One often hears that swans "mate for life." I have seen lone swans, and I wondered if their mate had died. But what happens to a lone swan after some time of being "widowed"? Do ...

When allow cygnets on open water -- Tracie -- 12 August 2014

We purchased mute swan cygnets about 6 wks ago. They are approximately 3mths old now and seem to be doing good. It's been a daily routine of feeding, cleaning, watering, housing. We have been keeping ...

Re: When allow cygnets on open water -- Tracie -- 13 August 2014

Thank you for your help. So we need to keep the top of their pen covered in some way to protect against flying predators like the owls or hawks? I have twine strung across the top of our pen right ...

Re: When allow cygnets on open water -- The Regal Swan -- 13 August 2014

Hi Tracie The string may work against owls, herons, egrets and hawks, but will not protect the young swans from foxes, coyotes, bobcats or other predators that can dig under or crawl/climb into the ...

Re: When allow cygnets on open water -- The Regal Swan -- 12 August 2014

Hi Tracie The swans are too young to be given full reign of the habitat as they have no idea how to protect themselves. Their small size is a concern as owls and hawks could get them. The more time ...

Shelter in winter -- Sam -- 10 August 2014

We purchased two swans for our pond at the beginning of the summer. We live in Colorado. Can the swans fair the weather in the winter or do we need to build them a shelter or send them somewhere for ...

Re: Shelter in winter -- The Regal Swan -- 10 August 2014

Hi Sam: Most swans will not seek shelter indoors or use a roof-like structure with only three walls. Since your swans are fairly new to the habitat, a shelter may work, especially if your habitat ...

Lonely mute swan paired up with a Canada goose -- Irena -- 10 August 2014

A large mute swan lives in the neighborhood pond. Last spring he (I assume it's a he) tried to break up a Canada geese couple with goslings, but was thwarted by the goose male. Then our swan changed ...

Re: Lonely mute swan paired up with a Canada goose -- The Regal Swan -- 10 August 2014

Hi Irena: No, the two species will not interbreed. Some juvenile birds will pal around with other species, especially if they are being chased by their own kind to compete for nesting and food ...

Baby swan with fish hook and line around neck -- Steven -- 10 August 2014

There is a baby swan on our lake with a fish hook in its bill and the line and bobber wrapped its neck. His mom and dad are with him. How can we get help for this poor creature? Thanks for any advice.

Re: Baby swan with fish hook and line around neck -- Steven -- 11 August 2014

A few people got together and were able to isolate the baby swan and quickly worked to remove the hook from its beak and fishing line from its neck. The baby and mom and dad are back swimming ...

Re: Baby swan with fish hook and line around neck -- The Regal Swan -- 12 August 2014

Hi Steven You are very welcome. But you and the community are the real hero's that need to be thanked. Because of your care and efforts the young swan may live a very good life. At least Michigan DNR ...

Re: Baby swan with fish hook and line around neck -- The Regal Swan -- 10 August 2014

Hi Steven: You will need to get a boat and try to capture the cygnet to remove the hook and line. The cygnet may need veterinary care with antibiotics. The only problem is that if these are Mute ...

Housing for swans -- Elizabeth -- 8 August 2014

Have two swans in our neighborhood in Pennsylvania, breed every year and are very productive. The nest is built on an island in the middle of our pond, but some neighbors suggest we build a "house" ...

Re: Housing for swans -- The Regal Swan -- 9 August 2014

Hi Elizabeth: There are only two reasons to build a house for swans: Predators and inclement weather. If your swans have been very productive and survived the winters, we would strongly suggest NOT ...

Swan diabetes -- Jon -- 7 August 2014

I have a mute swan about four months old. He seems to have a problem with diarrhea-when I say problem, these things are the size of cow pies. Seems to be a little lethargic. It won't stop eating and ...

Re: Swan diabetes -- The Regal Swan -- 7 August 2014

Hi Jon Without examining him, the eating and pooping seems normal. If he is eating a large amount of food then the amount of poop should be comparable to intake. Cygnets eat a lot of food and poop ...

Limp wing -- Kenneth -- 5 August 2014

We have 2 cygnet mute swans born on Mother's day, now about 11 weeks old and growing well. One has a developed a limp left wing. He tries to bring it up but it flops down. Is this a normal part of ...

Re: Limp wing -- The Regal Swan -- 5 August 2014

Hi Kenneth This condition needs immediate veterinary attention by an experienced waterfowl/bird veterinarian in order to save the wing. Even if the cygnets are pinioned (rendered unable to fly) this ...

Water moccasin and trumpeter swans -- Sally -- 4 August 2014

I have two pinioned trumpeter swans living in a half acre pond in Georgia. They are big and healthy but am concerned that I have seen a large snapping turtle laying eggs this year around the yard and ...

Re: Water moccasin and trumpeter swans -- The Regal Swan -- 4 August 2014

Hi Sally: Yes, we have heard of swans being bitten by snakes. Water moccasins are nasty snakes and can cause problems in the reeds and will even hang around near and under the nest. So, more ...

Limping Swan -- Liam -- 4 August 2014

Hey Swan Specialist, A swan started to appear near my home on the bay. The swan is living in the bay- no other swans are there. How could he get to the bay? Did he lose his pack? In addition, the ...

Re: Limping Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 4 August 2014

Hi Liam: We are not sure where you are located, so we would advise that you carefully inquire if there is someone in the area that can help you with the swan. In many states, wildlife facilities and ...

Do swans breed every year -- w.crossland -- 4 August 2014

Do swans breed every year?

Re: Do swans breed every year -- The Regal Swan -- 4 August 2014

Hi: Most swans breed once a year. The Australian Black Swan is the only swan species that breeds twice a year. Now, having said this, it also depends on the habitat, individual swan and the flock. ...

Growth on foot -- Gloria -- 2 August 2014

I just purchased a pair of black Australian Swans from a local breeder. The male has some kind of growth or something on his foot. He favors it but when I handled him he doesn't show any kind of ...

Re: Growth on foot -- The Regal Swan -- 2 August 2014

Hi Gloria This may be a bumble foot lesion. If you can send a photo, it would be helpful. The Regal Swan

Sex of swans/Buying a new swan -- Ken -- 30 July 2014

i had a pair of white swans. last winter one of them died. i want to get another swan to keep the living swan company or mate. i don't know the sex of the living swan, and can't tell the sex of a new ...

Re: Sex of swans/Buying a new swan -- The Regal Swan -- 31 July 2014

Hi Ken There are no guarantees that the remaining swan will take on a new mate. Because the pair were originally male and female, a same gender mate will probably not work as the swans may seriously ...

Embassy Suites and Royal Mute Swans -- Heather -- 30 July 2014

Hello. We are thinking about staying at an Embassy Suites hotel in Austin, Texas during an upcoming vacation trip. This hotel has two Royal Mute Swans. After reading reviews of the hotel, I came ...

Re: Embassy Suites and Royal Mute Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 31 July 2014

Hi Heather We have looked into the facilities that Embassy Suite Hotels provide for their swans and believe that they are not cruel to the swans. Ample swimming, bathing, feeding and preening areas ...

Re: Embassy Suites and Royal Mute Swans -- Heather -- 31 July 2014

Thank you so much! It makes me feel so much better knowing that this beautiful animals are safe and well cared for. Thank you for your invaluable feedback.

Female swan lethargic and moulting -- Lynn -- 29 July 2014

Hello, The female swan in our creek has been moulting for a couple of weeks now, but lately (last 2 days) she has seemed very lethargic and she is not eating. I am also noticing that she is keeping ...

Re: Female swan lethargic and moulting -- The Regal Swan -- 29 July 2014

Hi Lynn Not being able to physically examine her to ensure the swan is not injured, ill or having eaten something toxic, we will assume that this may be normal. During the molting season, one parent ...

Are water hyacinths safe for mute swans? -- Cindy -- 28 July 2014

Hi I was wondering if it was safe for my mute swans to add some water hyacinths from my ornamental pond to their larger pond. I have been unsuccessful in getting pond grasses and duck weed ...

Re: Are water hyacinths safe for mute swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 July 2014

Hi Cindy: You probably do not want to add the hyacinths to your swan's pond. Water hyacinths are an extremely invasive species and may overrun the habitat very quickly. We're not sure that the swans ...

Swan non-fertile eggs -- Marlys -- 27 July 2014

The female laid her eggs and sat on the nest forever it seemed. She finally abandoned the nest and in a few days the eggs were gone. Does she only lay eggs one time per year? Will she ever had ...

Re: Swan non-fertile eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 27 July 2014

Hi Marlys Most swans, except the Australian Black Swans produce cygnets only once a year. There could be several reasons for the eggs to go bad such as if one of the swans is infertile, swans are too ...

Fountain in lake, 2 swans no longer swim -- Suzanne -- 27 July 2014

Is it animal cruelty to put fountain in lake with 2 swans as they no longer swim?

Re: Fountain in lake, 2 swans no longer swim -- The Regal Swan -- 27 July 2014

Hi Suzanne Actually, the fountain will keep the swans and the pond healthy. By aerating the pond, harmful anaerobic bacteria that can cause the deadly toxin, botulism can be prevented. We can't ...

Mother mute swan keeps trying to take the young off -- Kas -- 26 July 2014

We have two Mute swans on our farm they had five young. They hatched the first week of May. Our problem is the mother keeps trying to take the young off. We got them for our 98 yr. old Grandmother ...

Re: Mother mute swan keeps trying to take the young off -- The Regal Swan -- 27 July 2014

Hi Kas It is normal for the parents to chase the juveniles once they are old enough to survive on their own and prior to the next nesting season. The parents know if there are limited resources and ...

Swan killing its own cygnet -- Helen -- 26 July 2014

We live beside a lagoon here in Hawkes Bay, New Zealand, where there is a pair of black swans who chase their teenage babies away each year and only live on this lagoon themselves. At other water ...

Re: Swan killing its own cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 27 July 2014

Hi Helen Most swans will chase the juvenile swans from the habitat prior to the next nesting season. The parent swans do not want future competition for mating or habitat resources. Your particular ...

swans cares for ducks -- abigail -- 26 July 2014

Okay so this female swan just one has been taking care of 20 we counted the 20 ducks about a few months old but she hunts for them and feeds them and just why there is only her there we set up ...

Re: swans cares for ducks -- The Regal Swan -- 26 July 2014

Hi Abigail Some birds/animals just have a nuturing quality which is why there are stories of a female dog/cat nursing other animal's young. In this case there is even a more simple answer. A baby ...

Found swan egg in the water -- Michael -- 23 July 2014

i just found a swan egg floating in the water. how do i tell if its alive and it smells a little fishy

Re: Found swan egg in the water -- The Regal Swan -- 24 July 2014

Hi Michael: Swan parents will discard bad or non-fertile eggs in the water. The last thing the parents want is to have a rotten egg explode in the nest. So, they will roll the eggs out of the nest ...

Adult female swan with fishing lure in her heel/ankle -- Rob -- 23 July 2014

My girlfriend and I have been visiting two swans at Sylvan Lake, MI. The male is fine, but the female is having a hard time walking around because of a medium sized metal fishing lure (3 pronged ...

Re: Adult female swan with fishing lure in her heel/ankle -- The Regal Swan -- 24 July 2014

Hi Rob: The fishing hook needs to be removed and antibiotic cream placed on the wound. The barb should be clipped and then the fishing hook removed just as you would if you were to be impaled with a ...

In AZ: Not to clip the wings of mute swan cygnets -- Joel -- 22 July 2014

Is it lawful to mate swans on golf course property and then not clip the wings of the cignets. and see if they will stay around , Given they get fed every day. The reason I am asking this question is ...

Re: In AZ: Not to clip the wings of mute swan cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 23 July 2014

Hi Joel You need to check with your local/state wildlife entities to see their requirements. In some states, wildlife officials will shoot Mute Swans if they are flying. The ability to fly will help ...

How good is a swan's sense of smell? -- Nicole -- 21 July 2014

Can swans smell if another swan has been in their territory?

Re: How good is a swan's sense of smell? -- The Regal Swan -- 21 July 2014

Hi Nichole: At first, many researchers believed that birds’ olfactory sense (smell) was not as well developed as their hearing and sight, thus this would be the least sense to be used. However, many ...

Missing swans -- Debra -- 20 July 2014

We have lived on a mile long lake near the New York border in southern Connecticut for 18 years. There have always been at least one pair of mute swans living on the lake. About a month ago, I saw a ...

Re: Missing swans -- The Regal Swan -- 21 July 2014

Hi Debra: There could be any number of scenarios. If the swans began to nest and were disturbed by boaters, humans or even shooting/hunting in the area, they could have looked elsewhere to nest. We ...

Injured young swan abandoned -- Frank -- 19 July 2014

We have young swan with injured or broken leg on pond behind house. Seems health other than leg. Swims around and feeds on its own. Rest of family of parents and two other young now shun it and chase ...

Re: Injured young swan abandoned -- The Regal Swan -- 19 July 2014

Hi Frank: Yes, if there is something wrong with the young cygnet, it will not survive. Leg and foot injuries are detrimental to waterfowl as they cannot enter the water for feeding or escaping ...

Swan have been trying to bred for six years -- Paul -- 15 July 2014

Hi there, as you recall by my name I have sent you previous email concerning swans. I am going to purchase a pair of mute Swans. These Swan have been trying to bred for six years I was told without ...

Re: Swan have been trying to bred for six years -- The Regal Swan -- 16 July 2014

Hi Paul Certainly, one or both could be infertile. The only way to find out is to check hormone levels and an anatomical exam. However, trying to determine the cause or treat could be costly and ...

Mute 6 wk. old swan not eating, strange cough, heavy breathing? -- Sara -- 13 July 2014

Hello We have 7, 6 wk. old Mute Swans. One ate this morning but did not eat this afternoon (regualr feeding time). Every once in awhile will make a funny cough sound. Can see its sides going in and ...

Radio Interview: Killing of Mute Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 13 July 2014

Hi Everyone: Sheila Bolin, CEO/President of the Regal Swan and Ask the Swan Specialist conducted a radio interview regarding the killing of Mute Swans across the U.S. and Canada. It is unfathomable ...

After a swan's mate dies -- John -- 9 July 2014

Hello. I have just witnessed one of the saddest things ever. A mute swan's mate was lying dead at the water's edge - I don't know how it happened but am doing what I can to find out - and it's mate, ...

Re: After a swan's mate dies -- The Regal Swan -- 9 July 2014

Hi John: We hope that this is not an incident of the NY DEC killing more swans, especially after the NY Senate and Assembly passed legislation to stop the killing. Was there any trauma on the bird ...

Trumpeter swan transporting young in flight? -- Reta -- 8 July 2014

We have a pair of trumpeter swans that brought a 3 day old cygnet from a lake 2 miles away to ours . We did not see them carrying the cygnet in flight, but that is the only way they could have gotten ...

Re: Trumpeter swan transporting young in flight? -- Reta -- 20 June 2015

We have the same pair of trumpeter swans that returned to our lake in May with the year old cygnet from last year. They chased the year old off, mated several times on our lake, and then left to nest ...

Re: Trumpeter swan transporting young in flight? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 June 2015

Hi Reta We have never seen a mother swan carry a baby swan in her mouth or on her back while flying. Obviously, she has found a way to get them to your pond. So, there are only two plausible ...

Re: Trumpeter swan transporting young in flight? -- The Regal Swan -- 9 July 2014

Hi Reta: Are you sure that you do not have a family in your area? Swans can nest in areas that you may not be able to see and then, once the cygnet is able to swim (24 hours after hatching), the ...

Geese in our Florida pond this morning -- Billy -- 8 July 2014

Hi, We had 17 geese in our Florida pond this morning when we got up. it seems that its a family of 5 and 2 families of 6 the way the 3 groups stay together. Just curios where these geese come from ...

Re: Geese in our Florida pond this morning -- The Regal Swan -- 9 July 2014

Hi Billy: We looked up Pipers Creek Geese and there is no such species per se. However, the Brant Goose species is the one found on the website in the photo. Since we have not seen a photo of the ...

Missing swan and cygnet -- Jen -- 6 July 2014

We had a swan family and then the one parent went missing. The cygnet was under a month old, still very small. We have a small pond in our community and then a wooded area and then Below that is ...

Re: Missing swan and cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 7 July 2014

Hi Jen: If the pond that the cygnet was hatched is a threat, lack of shelter, presence of predators, something disturbed or scared the parents or lack of food, yes, then the parents will try to get ...

Sick swans and cygnets -- Tracy -- 5 July 2014

I volunteer at a local park in Florida. We have a small lake with approx. 50-55 swans (mostly mute, a few whooper, a few black, one trumpeter & one black necked) We have lost a large percentage ...

Re: Sick swans and cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 7 July 2014

Hi Tracy: We think that we know the park that you are referring as we had some experience with this same park and similar issues years ago. We brought this to the attention of park personnel as well ...

Lonesome Swan -- Amy -- 5 July 2014

I live in Perth, Western Australia and have noticed a lonesome black swan living in a nearby park on the banks of our Swan River. I have seen it there for some months now and even though there are ...

Insured swan beak opens only a little bit -- Sue -- 3 July 2014

We have a swan with an injured beak, she was run over by a golf cart (no - don't ask how on earth did that stupid man do that). The animal control was unable to catch her. It has been almost two ...

Re: Insured swan beak opens only a little bit -- The Regal Swan -- 3 July 2014

Hi Sue: If at all possible, she needs to be captured and taken to a veterinarian for treatment if at all possible. Can she fly? If so, this is going to be a difficult capture. If she cannot fly, the ...

Curly toe -- Syndi -- 3 July 2014

Have u heard of this? What can we do for cygnet with it..

Re: Curly toe -- The Regal Swan -- 3 July 2014

Hi Syndi: Poultry and other captive fowl may get this syndrome which causes the toes to curl under or overlap. In the case of the swan, the toe probably appears to curl under the webbing. Most ...

Male swan left female with flooded nest and eggs, came back with a younger female... -- Lisa -- 2 July 2014

Hi, I hope you might be able to answer my question, please. I live in the UK on a marina and we have been blessed with a beautiful couple of mute swans who now reside on my mooring a few feet from ...

Webbed foot of cygnet is damaged -- Teresa -- 30 June 2014

we have a mother father and small baby swan in our lake. the baby has gotten hurt by something and it's webbed foot is damaged, looks like the web is mutilated. Will this grow back and do you know of ...

Re: Webbed foot of cygnet is damaged -- The Regal Swan -- 1 July 2014

Hi Teresa If the cygnet cannot put weight on the foot it is unlikely that he will be able to survive in any setting other than a very controlled wildlife/waterfowl rehabilitation center where he can ...

Keep swans with koi? -- Ronald -- 30 June 2014

Hi There, I would really appreciate your advice on the following matter. I have a koi pond of 15m x 5 m with about 65000 liter capacity. Have about 40 koi with sizes from 15 to 45cm. I would love to ...

Re: Keep swans with koi? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 June 2014

Hi Ron: There have been several instances where people had swans and kept koi in the same pond. However, due to the size of your pond, we would suggest that you stay with the smaller species, the ...

I found a lost cygnet - how to reunite it with its family -- Claire -- 26 June 2014

Edit: this ended up turning into a novel, my apologies. I am from the UK but there doesn't seem to be many organisations here that I can contact. Short story is: Can anyone advise as I have found a ...

Re: I found a lost cygnet - how to reunite it with its family -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 26 June 2014

Hi Claire There are many possibilities as to why the young cygnet cannot keep up with the family or is being shunned. We would strongly suggest that you contact the RSPCA or Wendy Hermon at ...

Mute swans as cultivators -- Mark -- 26 June 2014

Hi I read with interest your comment about mute swans that "tidy" their habitat. We have a family of swans on the lake just off our gated community -- Swan Lake Village -- in Markham, ...

Re: Mute swans as cultivators -- The Regal Swan -- 27 June 2014

Hi Mark: Swans will tidy their surroundings. Usually it is done for two major reasons, other than cultivating, although most plant life will benefit from old/dead material being removed for new ...

Re: Mute swans as cultivators -- Mark -- 27 June 2014

Hi Thanks for this info. Indeed Juliet does pull up plant material from the bottom and lets it fall for the cygnets. And she "pumps" her feet to churn up stuff off the bottom for the ...

Mute Swan cobb pulls leaves off my peonies, crocosmia & long grasses -- Pippa -- 23 June 2014

Hello. My pair of mute swans have had their cygnets and often sun themselves on my grass in my garden. However, this week, my cobb swan has taken to stripping several of my long grasses, peonies, ...

Re: Mute Swan cobb pulls leaves off my peonies, crocosmia & long grasses -- The Regal Swan -- 23 June 2014

Hi Pippa Swans are grazing birds and will eat aquatic vegetation, grasses, petunias, coleus, and other salad type plants. Swans are clean birds when it comes to their habitat and if in their eyes the ...

5 out of 10 cygnets have disappeared -- Sally -- 22 June 2014

Hi I had been feeding a swan near where I live all the while she was on her nest. She had 10 signets and both parents allowed me to see the babies within approx 3". This is how I know there were ...

Re: 5 out of 10 cygnets have disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 22 June 2014

Hi Sally: Are you sure that the cygnets are not under mom’s wings? A female swan will carry her young under the wings, especially if they are smaller than the rest of the brood or can’t keep up. If ...

Mute swan stopped eating bread and seems less active -- Kell -- 21 June 2014

Hi Our male swan has stopped eating bread for the last three weeks and seems less active have not seen him eating our daily wheat feed the female is eating well, they have not bred this year, they ...

Re: Mute swan stopped eating bread and seems less active -- The Regal Swan -- 21 June 2014

Hi Kell It may be the hot weather that has slowed him. In any case we would suggest that you contact Wendy Hermon from Swan Lifeline in Eton. She may be able to offer you some ideas to the cause and ...

Re: Mute swan stopped eating bread and seems less active -- Kell -- 21 June 2014

Hi many thanks will contact wendy tomorrow best wishes Kell .

Re: Mute swan stopped eating bread and seems less active -- The Regal Swan -- 22 June 2014

You are very welcome Kell. Please let us know how he progresses. The Regal Swan

Snapping turtles eating baby swans -- Chris -- 20 June 2014

Three baby swans killed by snapping turtle. Only two babies left. They are in a public pond. What' can I do to stop the turtles?

Re: Snapping turtles eating baby swans -- The Regal Swan -- 20 June 2014

Hi Chris If the swan family is not in a veterinary pen that is not enclosed top to bottom to prevent predators from digging under or climbing into the pen, there is little that can be done. Once the ...

Ducks in upper NY pond/creek -- yayalt -- 20 June 2014

I feed the ducks by a creek in NY . There are mallards and some additional types. I have actually seen a Mandarin duck for years and for the past 5 years been feeding two domestic looking ducks whom ...

What to feed as a treat? -- Roni -- 20 June 2014

If I'd like to feed a treat other than their pellets corn & oats, what would you recommend ?

Re: What to feed as a treat? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 June 2014

Hi Roni We would suggest keeping the cracked corn and poultry layer pellet and deleting the oats. Add lettuce and bread as a treat. Too much bread can change their blood chemistry and has no ...

News: New York State Senators pass bill to stop the killing of Mute Swans in NY today -- The Regal Swan -- 18 June 2014

See below

Re: News: New York State Senators pass bill to stop the killing of Mute Swans in NY today -- The Regal Swan -- 19 June 2014

Hi Lynne: Thanks for the kind words. We were honored to have helped and hope that we can render more assistance to other states that need to stop the killing . The Regal Swan

Re: News: New York State Senators pass bill to stop the killing of Mute Swans in NY today -- Lynne -- 19 June 2014

This is what a group of dedicated people can do. Now we need to do the same in NJ.

Swans killing their own cygnets? -- Lynne -- 18 June 2014

Is it true that swans will kill their young if they feel under threat ? My mother said she saw swans drowning their cygnets when a fox was on the bank

Re: Swans killing their own cygnets? -- The Regal Swan -- 18 June 2014

Hi Lynne: This is not usual behavior. A parent swan will practice "infanticide" if there is something wrong with the cygnet, i.e., sick or severely injured, not because of a threat. The parents do ...

The three cygnets have been pinioned -- Katherine -- 17 June 2014

Hi, I did get the three newborn swans to the vet yesterday, Monday, June16, 2014. I took them from Steven and Swanee and had them back within one hour and five minutes. The vet and I had arranged ...

Re: The three cygnets have been pinioned -- The Regal Swan -- 17 June 2014

Hi Kathleen: Great news that the pinioning and reunion went well. The parents will not begin chasing the cygnets from the habitat until 8-10 months of age. Once the separation and chasing occur, you ...

should we replace dead mate? -- Rebekah -- 17 June 2014

Hi, Our approximately 10 year old male mute swan died this week and we wonder if we should replace him as soon as possible with another male for our now lone female. She is about 6 years old. 1. ...

Re: should we replace dead mate? -- The Regal Swan -- 17 June 2014

Hi Becky: We would wait a little while. There are no guarantees that she will take another mate. Since you do not know what killed him, she could meet the same fate. You will also need to build a pen ...

Cygnet died at 2 weeks -- Cindy -- 15 June 2014

This morning we found one of our 4 babies just laying dead beside their pen. There was not a mark on it and it was healthy yesterday. Their pen is inside a fenced enclosure. Can swans get ...

Re: Cygnet died at 2 weeks -- The Regal Swan -- 15 June 2014

Hi Cindy: There could be any number of reasons for the death. Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that is usually a major concern for young birds. Moldy wet straw or hay can be one of the causes for ...

Swan on Braden River FL -- Wendy -- 15 June 2014

We live on Braden river and a swan showed up. Never seen one before. why would it be here?

Re: Swan on Braden River FL -- The Regal Swan -- 15 June 2014

Hi Wendy We have been hearing about a swan in this area for several weeks. Apparently, the swan has been seen in the river as well as a small pond east of I-75. We’re not sure what can be done as the ...

Mute swan still sitting since late March on (now) very brown eggs -- Suzanne -- 15 June 2014

Question from Victoria, Vancouver island. A mute swan has been nesting near my house for the past few months (since late March)... She still sits on her eggs everyday all day... The eggs are now very ...

Re: Mute swan still sitting since late March on (now) very brown eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 15 June 2014

Hi Suzanne: We are hearing about the same scenario throughout the world. Due to the severe late weather that we have been having, many birds went to nest, stopped and then began nesting again. Some ...

The new baby swans hatched out today -- Katherine -- 13 June 2014

Hi, This is Katherine again. Today, June 13, 2014 Swanee and Steven hatched two cygnets. They are lovely and seem to be in good health. I have a few questions. Should I put food and water at the nest ...

Re: The new baby swans hatched out today -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2014

Hi Katherine: Let the parents take care of the swans. They know what to do. Do not place any food near the nest as it will attract predators and pests, i.e., raccoons, turtles, ants, rats etc., that ...

Lone Swan -- Jeanette -- 13 June 2014

We just found Clyde our 16 year old black swan dead.After recovering his body from the pond and seeing the damage to his head we believe he got his head stuck in the fence protecting the bog area. He ...

Re: Lone Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2014

Hi Jeannette: This is a tough situation because she may or may not take on another mate. How old is she? If she is approximately 16 years of age or thereabout, there is nothing to say that once you ...

Re: Lone Swan -- Jeanette -- 14 June 2014

T.R.S. Last night was a full moon,pond just out the back door I was able to keep an eye on Bonnie.This morning did her normal routine came to the porch for her treat of bread. She does get a ...

Need advice about baby swan that was abandoned in the nest -- Sally -- 13 June 2014

My husband's family has a large farm with several large lakes. There are 7 or 8 adult swans with two nesting pairs. One nest was flooded this year and thankfully they have rebuilt in a different spot ...

Re: Need advice about baby swan that was abandoned in the nest -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2014

Hi Sally: There are a couple of concerns. First, what is the color of the parent’s beaks? If they are orange, then these are Mute Swans. Even though they are wild swans, many states are trying to ...

Swans -- Whit -- 12 June 2014

Hello I am doing a project on swans for school and I was wondering if you could post some cool facts about swans. Any help is appreciated. Thank you for helping!

Re: Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2014

Hi Whit: There are 7 species of swans and one subspecies of swan All Northern hemisphere swans are white in color with southern hemisphere swans having some black coloration on their wings. Northern ...

No swans this year -- Jennifer -- 11 June 2014

Hello friends and thanks for the info you provide here. My husband and I have spent the past few years walking at a local lake. Every year we've enjoyed seeing a trumpeter swan pair mate and rear up ...

Re: No swans this year -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2014

Hi Jennifer: We have been hearing this same scenario in various areas. The extreme temperatures, swans and other birds getting caught in the strong winds prior to and after the migratory time ...

SWAN FAMILY CANT ACCESS NEST -- Paul -- 11 June 2014

Hi The day before yesterday the swan family was washed down the weir and now can't access their nest. The 5 cygnets are a week old and they lost one last night. My concern is that there is nowhere ...

Re: SWAN FAMILY CANT ACCESS NEST -- Paul -- 13 June 2014

Re the above thanks all for your feedback. I am pleased to say that a resourceful neighbour of mine resolved the problem. I do not know the details yet but I have heard that she netted the signets ...

Re: SWAN FAMILY CANT ACCESS NEST -- The Regal Swan -- 13 June 2014

Hi Paul: Excellent news. Thank goodness for your neighbor. The Regal Swan

Re: SWAN FAMILY CANT ACCESS NEST -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2014

Hi Paul Please contact the RSPCA or Wendy Hermon at Swan Lifeline in Eton. Either one can help but you need to contact them immediately. The Regal Swan

Swan abandoning eggs -- Jean -- 9 June 2014

hi why have the swans abandoned 7 eggs in nest they have been sharing sitting on for several weeks Cygnets completely formed in egg

Re: Swan abandoning eggs -- Jean -- 10 June 2014

Thank you very much Weather has been very changeable here in scotland during time swan was sitting on eggs warm then cold plus torrential rain storms.

Re: Swan abandoning eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 11 June 2014

Hi Jean: You are very welcome. Yes, this would make sense, temperature extremes and torrential rain. The eggs probably were submerged in the water and they could not survive. The Regal Swan

Re: Swan abandoning eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 9 June 2014

Hi Jean: The cygnets could have suffocated in the egg if the nest got too wet, especially, if you had a torrential downpour. If you had an extreme temperature range, too cold, then hot and cold ...

Eggs rolled out of the nest, placed back; mother swan still sitting after 2 months -- Nancy -- 9 June 2014

We have a pair of swans (I think they are trumpet) at my work place. Mom swan laid her eggs somewhere around the 1st of April. One day a couple of weeks ago, I noticed one egg had rolled out of the ...

Re: Eggs rolled out of the nest, placed back; mother swan still sitting after 2 months -- The Regal Swan -- 9 June 2014

Hi Nancy: If an egg is infertile or not viable (cygnet dead in the egg), the parents will roll the egg out of the nest so that it does not explode in the nest and ruin everything inside the bowl of ...

BANDING & CRATING -- SHANNON -- 9 June 2014

Question #1: At what age range as a cygnet would a bird band be applied? Question #2: What approppriate crating would be used for release back into the wild. Wood crating or plastci cage crating? A ...

Re: BANDING & CRATING -- The Regal Swan -- 9 June 2014

Hi Shannon: The age of banding depends on the swan species. Which species are you considering banding? Are you using a leg, wing or neck band? Metal or plastic? The type of crate depends on how it is ...

Rings on cygnets -- Fred -- 8 June 2014

Who and when do they fit the rings on Cygnets.

Re: Rings on cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 8 June 2014

Hi Fred: The swans at Abbotsbury and along the Thames are banded on their legs during the summer months when the parents cannot fly because of the molting of the feathers. Her Majesty's Swan Marker ...

Mating Black Swans' bills and eyes are changing colors -- Mary -- 7 June 2014

I have a mating pair and notice their bills are turning slightly orange and are no longer that bright red color, can you tell me why they changed color? In addition their eyes are white instead of ...

Re: Mating Black Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 7 June 2014

Hi Mary: Male Australian Black Swans’ eyes are usually red in color, but their eyes will turn white during mating season. If your swans’ eyes are white, then it means that they are getting ready to ...

Swans attacked by turkey-like birds -- Angela -- 7 June 2014

I witnessed an attack on a swan swimming with her signets, the turkey like bird persued her relentlessly, jumped on her back and tried to drown her. One of the boats went to her rescue and separated ...

Swan will not leave nest and there are no eggs -- Barbara -- 6 June 2014

Think there are no eggs and all other birds have their babies for about a month now. Afraid she will starve. Can we or should we do anything?

Baby swans eggs to be hatched open soon, pond may be hostile environment for cygnets -- Katherine -- 5 June 2014

Hi, I have a few questions about our upcoming swan eggs that are due to hatch about June 13, 2014. We have a large pond totally fenced with about 50 wild ducks on it as well as two swans, Swanee the ...

Re: Baby swans eggs to be hatched open soon, pond may be hostile environment for cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 5 June 2014

Hi Katherine: The best thing to do in this situation is to let nature take its course. Unfortunately, you may lose some cygnets, but it is best for the cygnets and parents to remain in the water ...

Swan family w/ 4 cygnets disappeared -- Elaine -- 4 June 2014

Swan family with 4 cygnets disappeared. The pond they live on each and every year is by houses so you cannot hunt there. These swans also go into the ocean and frequent beaches etc during the summer. ...

Re: Swan family w/ 4 cygnets disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 5 June 2014

Hi Elaine The parents may have walked the cygnets to another pond especially if your area had limited food or shelter resources or the presence of predators. They still could be in an area you can't ...

Would a swan naturally abandon her nest? -- Linda -- 4 June 2014

Hi, would a swan naturally abandon her nest? I saw her sitting on the nest for a couple of weeks with her mate nearby and then left it. I don't know if any eggs were laid. What would be the reason? ...

Re: Would a swan naturally abandon her nest? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 June 2014

Hi Linda Yes, swans will abandon their nests.There could be various reasons for swans to abandon their nests. However, there are several most logical: eggs were not fertile or were not viable; ...

How much time do Swan mates spend with each other daily? -- Gene -- 3 June 2014

We were discussing the monogamous relationships of swans and the subject how much time mating swans spend with each other came up. Since swans are in a natural environment, the idea is that this is ...

Re: How much time do Swan mates spend with each other daily? -- The Regal Swan -- 3 June 2014

Hi Gene: Yes, we have researched swans, specifically Mute Swans for more than 16 years. Some of our veterinarians have worked with them for more than 40 years. The question you have asked involves ...

Swans and cygnets can't enter and exist water with high man-made river walls -- Brent -- 3 June 2014

Hi there My local state government has announced that they are building a new (replacement) foreshore wall along the banks of the Swan River in Perth. I have noticed that the swans along the river ...

Re: Swans and cygnets can't enter and exist water with high man-made river walls -- The Regal Swan -- 3 June 2014

Hi Brent: Yes, you are correct in that the swans, especially the cygnets will not be able to access the water. There are several remedies that can be made to the plans so that the swans and their ...

Nest is ignored by the swans: Should we remove it? -- Teresa -- 2 June 2014

There are two swans in my community lake. The female started building the nest with another male. He was killed and she took up with another male. They continued to build the nest and mated often in ...

Re: Nest is ignored by the swans: Should we remove it? -- The Regal Swan -- 2 June 2014

Hi Teresa: Just to ensure that nothing is occurring, wait at least one more week. If you see no more activity, then you can remove the nest and signage. We are advocating one more week because of the ...

Little dog chases swans -- Traci -- 2 June 2014

My little dog jumps in the canal and chases the swan, is he in danger? The dog will not retreat when called, and I've heard of dogs being drowned by angry swans

Re: Little dog chases swans -- The Regal Swan -- 2 June 2014

Hi Traci: Yes, a swan can hurt a small dog or other animal in the water, because they obviously cannot float or swim as well as the swan. However, swans are no more aggressive than any other ...

Will parents take babies back after wing clipping? -- Sherri -- 2 June 2014

We just took the 10 day old babies in to our vet to have the wings clipped. Will the parent swans take the babies back after they've been handled by people?

Re: Will parents take babies back after wing clipping? -- The Regal Swan -- 2 June 2014

Hi Sherri: As long as you get the cygnets back to the parents in a timely manner- 2-4 hours, the parents will take them back. We have had some extreme cases where parents have taken the cygnets back ...

Adopting a US swan in Jakarta? -- HP Irawan -- 2 June 2014

I once heard that some states in the US regularly controls the number of mute swans by means of "culling", either killing them or taking their eggs so they may not hatching. Instead of ...

Re: Adopting a US swan in Jakarta? -- The Regal Swan -- 2 June 2014

Hi HP: Yes, unfortunately, some states are culling the Mute Swans, but entities like the Regal swan Foundation, Inc., are trying to stop the killing. However, trying to adopt is almost impossible, ...

No one has seen the new born cygnets -- Elaine -- 2 June 2014

Yesterday am the cygnets were seen with the mother. Since yesterday lunchtime no one has seen the cygnets but the parents are on the river. We cannot see the nest from where we are. Would you expect ...

Re: No one has seen the new born cygnets -- The Regal Swan -- 2 June 2014

Hi Elaine: Keep an eye out for the family including cygnets. Mom will not leave them alone in the nest because predators can attack the young swans. More than likely, the cygnets are either close to ...

Eggs disappeared from nest, no eggshells around the nest -- Lisa -- 1 June 2014

We have a mating pair of swans that usually hatch 6-8 cygnets a year. This year a week or two before they should of hatched the eggs disappeared from the nest. There was no evidence of eggshells ...

Re: Eggs disappeared from nest, no eggshells around the nest -- The Regal Swan -- 1 June 2014

Hi Lisa: There are only three reasons for no eggs and no egg shells left in the nest. A predator such as a raccoon or other predators ate the eggs (all parts of them) after accessing the nest. The ...

Swans caged together -- John -- 30 May 2014

I was wondering if 2 swans were caged together, and 1 got out, could it run away or would it stay by the cage like it is doing now with the mate?

Re: Swans caged together -- The Regal Swan -- 31 May 2014

Hi John: Whether the swan will stay is an issue that has many possibilities. If the swans are new birds that you are introducing to the habitat, then both need to be kept in the cage. If either bird ...

Adult swans attacking each other -- Lori -- 29 May 2014

Hello again! Our baby swans are doing wonderful....swimming, eating etc. In our pond we have the male and female swans, their 2 babies, and a third swan that is the off spring of mom and dad. ...

Re: Adult swans attacking each other -- The Regal Swan -- 29 May 2014

Hi Lori: Before, the young swan may not have had any other potential mates. Now, that there are other swans on the lake, this male will eventually try to become the Alpha Male. Therefore, in normal ...

Male Swan sends all babies over a weir -- Elaine -- 28 May 2014

Hi, For the second year running, our local pair of swans have hatched 6 Cygnets ....only for the male swan to deliberately drive them all over the weir within a few days. He actually drives them over ...

Re: Male Swan sends all babies over a weir -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2014

Hi Elaine: We are referring your question to Wendy Hermon at Swan Lifeline in Eton, England. Wendy will be able to advise you on the feasibility and legality of moving the swan parents to a safer ...

Rye bread for swans? -- Mike -- 28 May 2014

If white bread is bad for swans, can rye bread be substituted?

Re: Rye bread for swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2014

Hi Mike: A little white bread is not detrimental to a swan despite what many individuals contend. Bread should be given as a treat only and not used as a nutritional supplement as it holds not ...

3 swans in our pond -- Stephanie -- 28 May 2014

I live on a 15 acre pond. Last year we had 2 mute swans, then it became 3. I am assuming the pair had one baby that survived. Now the 2 swans have left and the 3rd swan is left alone. When ever we ...

Re: 3 swans in our pond -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2014

Hi Stephanie: If the two swans that left the pond were the parents, then it can mean a couple of things. First, they can fly and may or may not return for the young swan. If the parents can fly and ...

Two adult swans and 8 cygnets have disappeared from a pond in Falmouth, MA -- Rita -- 28 May 2014

We have not seen the swan family for six days. The adult swans have lived in this pond for many years so it is so unusual for them to be gone.

Re: Two adult swans and 8 cygnets have disappeared from a pond in Falmouth, MA -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2014

Hi Rita: There could be any number of reasons for the swans to have disappeared. Are there other areas of the pond that the adults could have taken the young birds without you being able to see those ...

1 year old Mute Swan still half grey, will that change? -- Dewi -- 28 May 2014

In the park nearby our house the swan cygnets from last year all stayed in the park (is that common?) and I noticed that one of them is still half grey (top half). As a Cygnet he/she also stayed grey ...

Re: 1 year old Mute Swan still half grey, will that change? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2014

Hi Dewi: Most swans will leave the habitat at approximately 8-10 months of age when the parents chase them for the next mating/nesting season. Since this is a park setting, then it would seem that ...

Baby swans flying away -- Jerry -- 27 May 2014

How long does it take for baby swans to fly away after they are born?

Re: Baby swans flying away -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2014

Hi Jerry: Flight occurs at approximately 5-6 months of age when the flight feathers are completely formed. The Regal Swan

Swan Nesting without a Male? -- Karen -- 27 May 2014

Do swans lay eggs and nest if there is no male present?

Re: Swan Nesting without a Male? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2014

Hi Karen: Yes, female swans will still lay eggs (obviously non-fertile) during the nesting season and sit on the eggs and nests until they get tired of sitting and realize that nothing is going to ...

29 swans -- Caz -- 27 May 2014

Hi I've just been out walking my dog alone the river Clyde in Greenock Scotland and have seen 29 swans all swimming together and was wondering if there is any significance to this Thank Caz

Re: 29 swans -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2014

Hi Caz: These are probably swans returning on the migratory flight to the spring/summer nesting grounds. Swans will use stop-overs to eat and recover some of their energy to continue on their ...

Male Swan Alone -- Lynne -- 27 May 2014

Hi, If you remember me from a few months back ... our female swan was hit by a car and killed. The male was left on our frozen lake and we are unable to catch him. We managed to keep him alive during ...

Re: Male Swan Alone -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2014

Hi Lynne: The swan he chased was probably another male and he was declaring your pond off-limits as this I snow his pond. Let him stay alone for the time being, especially until the New Jersey mess ...

Re: Male Swan Alone -- Lynne -- 29 May 2014

Thank you.

Re: Male Swan Alone -- The Regal Swan -- 29 May 2014

Hi Lynne: Your are very welcome. Please let us know how he is doing. The Regal Swan

Eggs floating in water: Good or bad eggs? -- Lori -- 27 May 2014

My female swan has been sitting on her eggs for more than 45 days. All of the eggs float in water. Could they still hatch?

Re: Eggs floating in water: Good or bad eggs? -- The Regal Swan -- 28 May 2014

Hi Lori Put the eggs back under mom and give them some more time. Mom will know when they are bad and will either kick them out of the nest or abandon them. Your count may not be mom's count as she ...

Mother swan to raise her cygnets on her own -- Lia -- 25 May 2014

How does a mother swan raise her cygnets on her own? Many thanks in advance.

baby swans are all gone -- Michele -- 24 May 2014

So,the swan couple in my neighborhood lake (in NC) have had several babies each spring, but oddly, none of them have ever survived. They may start out with 5,6 or 7 babies, but week after week there ...

Re: baby swans are all gone -- The Regal Swan -- 24 May 2014

Hi Michele There could be snapping or soft shelled turtles, bass, heron, raccoon, otter, owl, hawk and many other predators that could kill the young cygnets. The geese may be nesting or taking their ...

Swans not mating -- Awwal -- 23 May 2014

Hi, i have a pair of swans but i haven't seen them mating Dont know why?

Re: Swans not mating -- The Regal Swan -- 24 May 2014

Hi Awwal There could be several reasons 1. The swans are too young to mate - usually takes 2 years for maturity, but some swans may take longer to mature. 2. The weather patterns this year-cold then ...

New Baby Swans: Any special care? -- Lori -- 22 May 2014

We have had 2 baby swans hatch and mom is sitting on the third. We have a large pond in an assisted living facility. There are 2 males and a female. This is only the second time an egg has hatched. ...

Re: New Baby Swans: Any special care? -- The Regal Swan -- 23 May 2014

Hi Lori: As long as the parents are with them, you don't need to do anything. The parents will teach them how to feed, bathe, preen, protect themselves from predators and how to be a swan in general. ...

Our New Poster, International Symbol of World Peace -- Regal Swan Foundation -- 22 May 2014

New Poster, International Symbol of World Peace -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 22 May 2014

We want to use the baby on the world so that we can stop the killing. Update: 2 new bills headed for New York Assembly and New York Senate to stop the killing of Mute Swans in New York for at least 2 ...

Mother swan missing -- Suzie -- 22 May 2014

Hi. We live on a very large pond with a pair of swans. I have only seen the female a few times in the past 6 weeks so I know that she has been nesting. Today I saw the male swan with six new cygnets, ...

Re: Mother swan missing -- The Regal Swan -- 22 May 2014

Hi Suzie: Usually, the female will be with the cygnets and not the male. Are you sure that this is not the female? Once the cygnets go into the water, the male will hang around at night or throughout ...

One male and two female swans, new male swan dead -- Sandra -- 22 May 2014

I live in a condo w/ lake, and last year we acquired two male swans for our lake. (we did not want babies) well last month one died. We then got another male swan and two female swans and decided ...

Re: One male and two female swans, new male swan dead -- The Regal Swan -- 22 May 2014

Hi Sandy: Unfortunately, this scenario may not get any better. Once the swans are paired, they will chase any odd man/woman out, refusing to let them eat, bathe, drink or exist anywhere in their ...

Care for wild trumpter swan? -- Tiffany -- 19 May 2014

Hello! At our drinking water plant we have a trumpeter swan who stayed after his flock left in the spring. He appears very healthy. He swims in our lagoons, walks around, eats, but does not seem to ...

Re: Care for wild trumpter swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 19 May 2014

Hi Tiffany: Feed him a 50% mixture of poultry layer pellets and cracked corn. The poultry layer pellets will provide him with much needed vitamins and minerals such as calcium, potassium, ...

Re: Care for wild trumpeter swan? -- Tiffany -- 20 May 2014

Wow, thank you SO much for the detailed information! This is exactly what we needed. So will he find the food in the feeder himself? Or do we need to somehow show him it's there? One other question - ...

Re: Care for wild trumpeter swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 May 2014

Hi Tiffany: Yes, swans must have water to eat to prevent choking. You need to place the food in the water and feed him in the same spot for several weeks until he gets comfortable with you and the ...

Re: Care for wild trumpeter swan? -- Tiffany -- 20 May 2014

Thank you!!

Re: Care for wild trumpeter swan? -- The Regal Swan -- 20 May 2014

You are very welcome Tiffany. The Regal Swan

Cygnets return to nest at night? -- Mick -- 18 May 2014

Do cygnets return to the nest at night after they have been out on the water?

Re: Cygnets return to nest at night? -- The Regal Swan -- 18 May 2014

Hi Mick: Yes, the parents will bring the cygnets back to the nest for up to two weeks. These visits will occur during the daytime (several times for naps) and then at night. Until the cygnets can get ...

Canada goose - protuberance on belly -- Nelly -- 18 May 2014

Hi! You have kindly helped me in the past with Canada geese questions, and I am hoping you might be able to offer advise on the following issue. 'Mama Goose' lost her eggs three times this spring. I ...

Odd couple: Female swan and male goose -- Salima -- 17 May 2014

hello, I just was walking round and I saw a swan nesting on the ground with no nest. Then I realized that the male is a goose. i dont know BUT this isn't NORMAL ????? Please some one tell me if this ...

Re: Odd couple: Female swan and male goose -- Regal Swan Foundation -- 17 May 2014

Hi: From the photo, we don't think that the swan is actually nesting, only resting. The goose may have just been in the area. Also, from the swan's appearance, it may be a young swan that is somewhat ...

Older Swan: No eggs this year -- Debbie -- 17 May 2014

Our swan laid eggs for 11 years, until last year. And this year, no eggs. Would you happen to know if it may because of her age?

Re: Older Swan: No eggs this year -- The Regal Swan -- 17 May 2014

Hi Debbie: We are assuming she still has a mate. However, even if she is a lone swan, females can still produce eggs during the nesting season due to hormones, even though the eggs would obviously be ...

Keeping cygnets around -- Carol -- 17 May 2014

Hi we have a pair of swans that live in our neighborhood lake. This year they hatched 4 cygnets that have managed to survive for 3 weeks now. I understand that when they get to be about 6 months old ...

Re: Keeping cygnets around -- The Regal Swan -- 17 May 2014

Hi Carol: The cygnets will stay with their parents for approximately 8-12 months of age or until they are chased by the parents prior to the next breeding season in a year. There are several issues ...

New Poster, International Symbol of World Peace -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 16 May 2014

We want to use the baby on the world so that we can stop the killing. Update: 2 new bills headed for New York Assembly and New York Senate to stop the killing of Mute Swans in New York for at least 2 ...

Can swans live happily in odd numbers? -- Eileen -- 15 May 2014

We have 5 baby swans and as we try to find them a home we are unsure if three (regardless of sex, because we don't know it!) can live together happily. Otherwise we try to find a lone swan who needs ...

Re: Can swans live happily in odd numbers? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 May 2014

Hi Eileen: If the odd swan out is a female, she may have a better chance of sticking around. However, if the swan is a male, the other males will chase and possibly injure him to remove him from the ...

Black Swans in Michigan? -- Terri -- 14 May 2014

Two weeks ago, I saw two black swans in a field pond down the road from our farm. They had their wings out but were in the water. I haven't seen them before or since and didn't have anything to take ...

Re: Black Swans in Michigan? -- Janet -- 9 July 2016

I saw a black swan in Coldwater, MI. Took pictures. My friend said the swans been there for some time.

Re: Black Swans in Michigan? -- The Regal Swan -- 14 May 2014

Hi Terri: The Australian Black Swans are southern hemisphere swans, so if they are in Michigan, they are probably someone's pet that escaped and/or got blown off their course during the inclement ...

Swans abandon eggs? -- Victoria -- 14 May 2014

A report in the local paper suggested that thieves had tried twice to steal eggs from a very prominent swan's nest by the bridge in Totnes. However, a few weeks before this report, I was walking that ...

Re: Swans abandon eggs? -- The Regal Swan -- 14 May 2014

Hi Victoria Yes swans will kick rotten or infertile eggs from the nests so that the eggs do not mess-up the nest or the smell attract predators. Usually, by rolling them out of the nest, the eggs ...

Swan attacked by a fox, now has an egg -- Laurie -- 13 May 2014

We found a swan who was the victim of a fox attack......we rescued him and has a neck injury.......was not eating or drinking but seems to be doing both fine.....went to check this morning and there ...

Re: Swan attacked by a fox, now has an egg -- The Regal Swan -- 13 May 2014

Hi Laurie Don't worry about the egg. Get her to an avian/waterfowl veterinarian quickly. She needs to be placed on antibiotics, and provided fluids, nourishment and supportive care. Even then she may ...

Petition to stop the killing of Mute Swans in New Jersey -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 11 May 2014

Hi Everyone: You will find below the link to a new petition to stop the killing of Mute Swans in New Jersey. I posted the poster along with the new petition on The Regal Swan's Facebook, Twitter and ...

Petition to stop the killing of Mute Swans in New Jersey -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 11 May 2014

Hi Everyone: You will find below the link to a new petition to stop the killing of Mute Swans in New Jersey. I posted the poster along with the new petition on The Regal Swan's Facebook, Twitter and ...

How long to leave eggs that have not been fertilised -- Kim -- 11 May 2014

Hi, we have a rescue pet swan, whom we have had since she was a ball of fluff. She had another rescue swan as a partner for years and they successfully raised signets. Unfortunately Shadow had an ...

Swan been alone in a field for two days -- Anne -- 9 May 2014

What can be done for a swan that's been alone in a field for two days

Re: Swan been alone in a field for two days -- The Regal Swan -- 9 May 2014

Hi Anne Pleased call the RSPCA or Wendy Hermon at Swan Lifeline in Eton. They will be able to check on the swan and rescue it if necessary. The Regal Swan

Old swan can't hold her head up -- Paul -- 8 May 2014

Hello, I am hoping you can help me, I have a female mute swan who is approximately 26 years old. she is like a member of our family. I bought her when she was a week old from a veterinarian there was ...

Re: Old swan can -- The Regal Swan -- 8 May 2014

Hi Paul: Any failure to hold the head erect could be the result of many issues. She could be older and the muscles have weakened, she may have an illness or toxicity, or in pain. How is her appetite? ...

Torrential rains submerged eggs on lake -- Shari -- 8 May 2014

Hi.... We did a full day rescue operation. It was so pitiful watching the swans frantically attempt to save their nest for hours on end. But the bottom line is the eggs were submerged in very cold ...

Re: Torrential rains submerged eggs on lake -- The Regal Swan -- 8 May 2014

Hi Shari: Depending on how long the eggs were in the cold water or if they were totally submerged, would determine the viability. There is the possibility that the eggs were in the water for a ...

Cygnet help: To raise or to return to the aggressive swan father? -- Tess -- 6 May 2014

Thank you for sharing your knowledge about swans.. I work on a ranch, and there are a family of swans on the pond. They recently had babies (two days ago) Yesterday the dad pushed one baby off onto ...

Re: Cygnet help: To raise or to return to the aggressive swan father? -- The Regal Swan -- 6 May 2014

Hi Tess: Unfortunately, when a swan parent kicks a cygnet out of the nest, it means that something is very wrong with the cygnet. It could be sick or have a genetic defect. So, your intervention may ...

Black swans management -- Mondalmi -- 5 May 2014

I have discovered a (I think) a mating pairs of Black Swans in our creek which is a natural free flowing not very deep creek - since recent rains these two have been floating serenely up and down ...

Re: Black swans management -- The Regal Swan -- 6 May 2014

Hi Mondalmi You can encourage them to stay by feeding them a mixture of poultry layer pellets and cracked corn, lettuce and some bread. If the swans are not use to people, you may have to drop the ...

Deformed wings, too much protein -- Suzann -- 3 May 2014

I have a 4 month old Black Swan cygnet that was born and raised in an enclosure without a real pond, but had kiddie pools. We had to supplement all food and put in greens for her. We now have a pond ...

New pond: Can we use septic tank enzymes to remove moss, without harming the swans? -- Suzann -- 3 May 2014

We recently put in a pond for our pair of Black Swans and their one sibling. We had to rescue them from a golf course where the male was too aggressive. The pond is about one month old and is growing ...

John Muir Non-profit Conservation Award -- Regal Swan Foundation -- 30 April 2014

CEO Sheila Bolin and V.P. Angi Perretti accept the prestigious international John Muir Non-profit Conservation Award on behalf of The Regal Swan Foundation, Inc. The award ceremony was held on April ...

Please sign Sen. Avella's Bill & Petition to Save NY's Mute Swans -- Regal Swan Foundation -- 30 April 2014

SIGN & SHARE: NY Senator Tony Avella has introduced S.6589, legislation which would establish a two-year moratorium on DEC’s proposal to exterminate New York's mute swans. The bill would also require ...

Looking for female Mute Swan in California -- DEE -- 29 April 2014

I am looking for a female Mute Swan as a companion for my 1 yr. old Male Mute Swan. I live on 3 acres that is private and fenced. I have looked everywhere and have asked everyone, but I can not find ...

Re: Looking for female Mute Swan in California -- The Regal Swan -- 29 April 2014

Hi Dee: Yes, California is another state that follows the misinformation provided by state and federal wildlife entities that the Mute Swan species is invasive and non-native. So, they refuse to ...

Female swan lost its mate -- Susan -- 29 April 2014

Our male mute swan was murdered by trespassing fishermen on Friday. Apparently struck in the head. He was wobbling and flailing after attack. We manages to calm him and transport him to rescue group ...

Re: Female swan lost its mate -- The Regal Swan -- 29 April 2014

Hi Susan: How tragic. The fisherman should have been brought up on criminal trespassing and animal cruelty laws. The veterinary clinic either did not know how to take care of him or did not want to ...

Swan in pond arrived today: Where did it come from? -- Angie -- 28 April 2014

I live in ohio and a swan arrived today. It is in a pond on the golf course behind our house. Where did this single swan come from? We get ducks and lots of Canadian geese, but have never had a swan. ...

Re: Swan in pond arrived today: Where did it come from? -- The Regal Swan -- 30 April 2014

Hi Angi: There could be a couple of reasons for the swan’s appearance on your pond. If the weather has been extremely severe, birds can get caught in strong winds and blown-off course from the ...

Female mute swan neck tucked -- Cindy -- 27 April 2014

Hi, we have a really nice pair of mute swans. Unfortunately, this year something got to their eggs. Ever since, the female has been very shy and almost always swims with her neck tucked down where we ...

Re: Female mute swan neck tucked -- The Regal Swan -- 28 April 2014

Hi Cindy Yes, you need to get her to an avian/waterfowl veterinarian for an exam and treatment if necessary. Her neck should be erect, if not it could mean some type of trauma due to injury, ...

Black swans and koi fish -- Rocky -- 27 April 2014

There are several videos online of black swans feeding koi. Is this a symbiotic relationship, and if so, how? Why do the swans feed the koi? Is this specific to black swans, or are there other types ...

Re: Black swans and koi fish -- The Regal Swan -- 28 April 2014

Hi Rocky For the untrained eye, it appears the swans are feeding the fish intentionally. However, it is an inadvertent feefing. Swans must have water to feed to prevent choking. The swans grab food ...

Swan not allowed to reproduce -- Willette -- 24 April 2014

Hello from Washington State! I work at Madigan Army Medical Center and we have two gorgeous swans from Canada on our manmade small lake. When one lays an egg, they are allowed to keep it for a few ...

Re: Swan not allowed to reproduce -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2014

Hi Willette: What species do you have? This researcher is basing the information on misinformation. So, here is the fact. If the swans are Mute Swans, the U.S. Wildlife Services and state wildlife ...

Egg incubation -- Phil -- 24 April 2014

Do both male and female share the incubation? If not, does the female fast for the whole time?

Re: Egg incubation -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2014

Hi Phil: Incubation is primarily conducted by the female, but this totally depends on the individual male swan and/or the species. In any case, the female will take an approximate 30 minute break ...

Baby swan has a broken leg -- Paige -- 24 April 2014

we have new babies in our lake one had broken its leg.What can we do? Will it survive?

Re: Baby swan has a broken leg -- The Regal Swan -- 24 April 2014

Hi Paige: The cygnet may be able to survive a broken leg depending on how severe and the location of the break. It will not survive without veterinary care. You need to take the cygnet to a licensed ...

Problem with swan: brown sores along the inside and outside edges of both feet -- Romy -- 23 April 2014

Hi there, we live on a marina (in Cambridge, England) and we have a pair of swans that visit our boat regularly. Recently the male swan has been swimming with one foot out of the water and tucked ...

Re: Problem with swan: brown sores along the inside and outside edges of both feet -- The Regal Swan -- 23 April 2014

Hi Romy & Paul There could be several issues. One, nothing is wrong as swans will hold at least one leg/foot on its back. There are so many capillaries and other blood vessels in the foot that many ...

Dimensions of a swan house/coop -- Mark -- 22 April 2014

What size should a swan house/coop be? Looking for dimensions. Thank you

Re: Dimensions of a swan house/coop -- The Regal Swan -- 22 April 2014

Hi Mark: Swans do not like to have any overhangs such as coops or other such structures. If you are thinking of maintaining them indoors for nesting or general protection at night, then they need to ...

Lonely Swan -- Kim from Oxford UK -- 22 April 2014

Hi, For the past two days a swan has been sitting alone in the middle of the field opposite us, and has not moved far. My husband, tried to approach it to see if it was injured, but it did fly to ...

Re: Lonely Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 22 April 2014

Hi Kim: It could be a juvenile or injured swan that was chased from the flock. If the bird does have eggs, then it means that there is a possibility that something happened to its mate. If a predator ...

Male and female swans stopped hanging around -- Sue -- 21 April 2014

What does it mean when the male and female swan stop hanging around together? This is different behavior in the last month or so.

Re: Male and female swans stopped hanging around -- The Regal Swan -- 21 April 2014

Hi Sue: Normally, this time of the year is mating season. However, with all of the late cold weather we have been incurring, the birds may have been interrupted in their mating and nesting behavior. ...

Swan and a Canadian goose -- Bonnie -- 20 April 2014

Recently we noticed on our pond the one of the adult swans is missing. We have also noticed that the remaining swan is now inseparable from a Canadian goose. The pair of swans used to chase off the ...

Re: Swan and a Canadian goose -- The Regal Swan -- 21 April 2014

Hi Bonnie: Depending on the swan species and the individual swan personality attributes, some swans will either chase or tolerate other species in their habitat. In some cases, although not usual, ...

Death of mate -- Victoria -- 19 April 2014

A couple of days ago our male swan was dragged off by a coyote. The female was laying on eggs, but she destroyed them. I was wondering what would happen to her now that her mate is gone. Should we ...

Re: Death of mate -- The Regal Swan -- 19 April 2014

Hi Victoria: Unfortunately, if the coyote took the male, it will try to come back and finish off the female. Unless you place the female indoors for a couple of days and nights, the coyote will be ...

How to have a baby swan stay near our house -- Glenn -- 18 April 2014

Hi we have a fresh water stream running all around our house and this morning a baby swan is enjoying a swim what do we do to keep him happy and encourage him to take up residence?

1 male loses 2 mates in 5 years -- Pam -- 17 April 2014

Can a male accidently drown a female while mating?

Re: 1 male loses 2 mates in 5 years -- The Regal Swan -- 18 April 2014

Hi Pam Yes, but this is not typical behavior. There could be a couple of other reasons for the deaths to include illness, egg impaction, poisoning, etc. We have seen swan mates actually try to kill ...

How late in the year will mute swans lay eggs? -- Richard -- 17 April 2014

How late in the year will mute swans lay eggs?

Re: How late in the year will mute swans lay eggs? -- The Regal Swan -- 17 April 2014

Hi Richard: This is going to be an interesting question this year. Most Mute Swans lay eggs mid March/late March. This means that most cygnets hatch out around late April or early May. The problem ...

Thoughts on sterilizing swans? -- Laura -- 16 April 2014

Hello, We last spoke back in March (4 swans co existing), after countless hours...we found a wonderful home for the two swans that were being run off by the other two. We were able to gently catch ...

Re: Thoughts on sterilizing swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 16 April 2014

Hi Laura: Chemical sterilization has been proposed for many years, but at this time, there is still no viable way to conduct this procedure. There are only 3 options for you: 1. Trade out your male ...

Re: Thoughts on sterilizing swans? -- Laura -- 17 April 2014

Thank you for your thoughts...I have Bob Knox's number, under "favorites", he was an option for us, in regard to the pair we just relocated. We felt boxing them and mailing them at their ...

Re: Thoughts on sterilizing swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 17 April 2014

Hi Laura: You are very welcome. Glad it worked out. Thanks for your kind words. The Regal Swan

Egg nesting: Random eggs put in a swans nest - What will the swan do? -- Anisha -- 15 April 2014

I live on a lake and there are quite a few swans nesting right now... There were some kids that saw a crow stealing eggs out of a hole that was in the ground... The kids didn't want the crow to keep ...

Re: Egg nesting: Random eggs put in a swans nest - What will the swan do? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 April 2014

Hi Anisha: Hopefully, the swans will kick these eggs out of the nest quickly. The only species that we can think of that lay eggs around water habitats would be turtles or snakes. To have either of ...

RANDOM SWAN -- DOMENYK -- 15 April 2014

HI I RIDE TO WORK EVERYDAY AN THERE IS A LONE SWAN( AFFECTIONALY CALLED GREYHAM) AT THE SAME SPOT EARLY IN THE MORNIN AN ABOUT 5 IN THE EVENING I RIDE WITH A COUPLE OV M8S AN WE ARE A BIT CONFUSED ...

Re: RANDOM SWAN -- The Regal Swan -- 15 April 2014

Hi Domenyk: We aren't sure of the exact situation you are describing as we don't know the terrain/habitat, etc., but there could be several scenarios. If there is a lot of a vegetation in the area, ...

1 pair of swans and another female on same pond -- Dwight -- 14 April 2014

We lost our male Mute and caught the female and penned it up. Then got another pair and put them on the pond. The female got out and is now back on the pond and she had a fight with the new male. I ...

Re: 1 pair of swans and another female on same pond -- The Regal Swan -- 14 April 2014

Hi Dwight: Actually, the new pair should have been penned. Think about having someone come in and take over your house. This is where the problem is beginning. The new pair should be penned to ...

Male Black Swan very aggressive this year -- Tricia -- 13 April 2014

We have a pair of black australian swans in our spring fed pond that are fenced in wings pinioned. The male is about 3 years old and the female is about 7 years old. This spring the male tries to ...

Re: Male Black Swan very aggressive this year -- The Regal Swan -- 13 April 2014

Hi Tricia The male Black Swan is ready to mate this year so he is acting normally. It usually takes 2-3 years before swans mature and now your child has become an adult. Keep the species separated, ...

Things look bleak: Dozen turtles parked outside the nesting mother swan -- Erika -- 12 April 2014

I have been watching these swans for years They nest in a river not far from my home this year there are over a dozen turtles parked outside her nest Are they stalking her to eat her eggs and/or ...

Re: Things look bleak: Dozen turtles parked outside the nesting mother swan -- The Regal Swan -- 13 April 2014

Hi Erika: You have had so much snow and rain in your area and from the looks of all the reeds, there is probably not enough space for the turtles to sun themselves. The swans have in essence made a ...

How to clean nesting area without disturbing the swans -- Cynthia -- 11 April 2014

Hi - There is a pair of mute swans that appear to be nesting nearby, and there's trash close to the nest that I'd like to try to remove before any cygnets are born. Will it be too disruptive to try ...

Re: How to clean nesting area without disturbing the swans -- The Regal Swan -- 11 April 2014

Hi Cynthia Try to wait for the swans to take a break which should occur at the first of the nesting process. Once nesting gets really serious, the swans may not leave the area. In this case, you will ...

Will Trumpeter Stay? -- Aelise -- 10 April 2014

Hello again: We're wondering if our new Trumpeter "resident' will decide to stay, or migrate during winter, and possibly return with a mate next year to start a family? As I mentioned, it is ...

Re: Will Trumpeter Stay? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 April 2014

Hi Aelise This situation could go either way. He should have left because of migration and his parents chasing. To return, means the familiarity and liking of the habitat due to good food resources ...

Swan nesting: Male disappeared -- Jane -- 10 April 2014

I am aware of a white female swan nesting in a well known corner of cheshire. I have been to see her four times now and the first two times, her mate was around obviusly protecting her. For a few ...

Re: Swan nesting: Male disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 10 April 2014

Hi Jane He may not be around the times that you are checking. Early on, the female will leave the nest to bathe and feed. Some males will sit by the nest while others will patrol large areas of the ...

Swan Feeder -- Aelise -- 9 April 2014

It appears the Trumpeter swan family, who have visited in the past 2 years, have deposited one their juveniles on our pond. It has taken up residence, and seems to be acclimating. It is also coming ...

Re: Swan Feeder -- The Regal Swan -- 10 April 2014

Hi Aelise The difficulty in providing the feeder is training the swan to use the feeder. It one thing to provide a platform of food and another to provide a feeder which keeps out other waterfowl, ...

Mute swan death and 2 females -- Patty -- 8 April 2014

Hi, We had 2 pair of swans one pair of mute and one pair of black. A month ago we lost the black male and just yesterday the white male we found just laying on the grass but still breathing. We took ...

Re: Mute swan death and 2 females -- The Regal Swan -- 8 April 2014

Hi Patty There are no guarantees that the old swans will re-pair. Additionally, one of the new males could seriously hurt or kill the other male swan. It would be best to leave the two females ...

Re: Mute swan death and 2 females -- Patty -- 8 April 2014

Would it be ok to bring in another pair?

Re: Mute swan death and 2 females -- The Regal Swan -- 8 April 2014

Hi Patty Swans can get pretty territorial so any new swans can result in either the new or old swans being displaced. If fights break out, some of the swans could get seriously hurt or killed. Chased ...

How to care for baby swans after the incubated eggs have hatched -- Lori -- 7 April 2014

We have 3 swans at an assisted living facility in a pond built for them. The female has laid 4 eggs and we have taken them to a lady to see if she can incubate and hatch since year after year they do ...

Re: How to care for baby swans after the incubated eggs have hatched -- The Regal Swan -- 8 April 2014

Hi Lori What are the swan genders? If they are all female, they will nest and obviously produce infertile eggs. Incubating swan eggs is rather difficult and unless you have a lot of experience with ...

Re: How to care for baby swans after the incubated eggs have hatched -- Lori -- 8 April 2014

Thank you So much for your response! The swans are 1 female and 2 males. We are building another large pond as an addition to our assisted living facilities and were going to place the new swans ...

Re: How to care for baby swans after the incubated eggs have hatched -- The Regal Swan -- 8 April 2014

Hi Lori You are very welcome. Your swans may be too old to produce viable eggs or the "parents" may be sterile. The Regal Swan

2 male mutes 1 female -- Cheryl -- 7 April 2014

I have two DNA tested male mute swans that act like a pair. My neighbor lost her male swan this winter. I was going to take my nice male over to replace her lost one. When I caught the male the other ...

Re: 2 male mutes 1 female -- The Regal Swan -- 7 April 2014

Hi Cheryl You probably need to leave well enough alone. If the males have bonded which seems to be the case, the boys will look for each other and may even grieve. There are no guarantees that either ...

John Muir Conservation Award -- Regal Swan Foundation -- 6 April 2014

We just received the official poster (below) for the John Muir Conservation Award that the Regal Swan Foundation will be picking up on April 29 from the John Muir Association, at the John Muir ...

Swans in my swimming pool -- Beth -- 6 April 2014

yesterday I arrived at my weekend house to find 2 swans in my swimming pool. One swan left in the afternoon and has not yet returned. I have two golden doodle dogs that are eager hunters and anxious ...

Discarded Eggs -- Ian -- 5 April 2014

The swan by the River Dart in Totnes close to where I live, discarded her eggs yesterday. I suppose this could have been the result of a very high tide which nearly covered the nest but the eggs ...

Re: Discarded Eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 5 April 2014

Hi Ian: A couple of scenarios come to mind. Usually, swans will discard eggs that are not fertile or rotten. The swans obviously know when something is or is not viable, otherwise they would spend an ...

Mute swan sharing a nest with a Toulouse goose -- Sheryl -- 4 April 2014

Hi- I have a mute swan, sex undetermined. I have 2 Toulouse geese. I thought male and female(actually mother and son). Out of the 3, someone started a nest with a few eggs in there. The one Toulouse ...

Re: Mute swan sharing a nest with a Toulouse goose -- The Regal Swan -- 4 April 2014

Hi Sheryl Interesting question. We’re not sure that we can be accurate in our answer, but we are going to try some deductive reasoning. First, let’s talk about swan nesting/egg laying/incubation ...

Male swan -- Sheila -- 1 April 2014

What does it mean when they are swimming around with their wings up almost like a tunnel over their back?

Re: Male swan -- The Regal Swan -- 2 April 2014

Hi Sheila The male will swim with its wings back and produce a wake as he swims. This behavior is called busking and basically means the bird is in a very defensive mode protecting its family and ...

Swan Injury -- Janice -- 31 March 2014

Our older LARGE male swan's mate has died. We ordered and were delivered another female. We thought she had "flown the coop" however, she is now back and swimming on the pond. The resident ...

Re: Swan Injury -- The Regal Swan -- 31 March 2014

Hi Janice Either of these scenarios is plausible. You need to capture both swans and have an experienced waterfowl/avian veterinarian check the swans for gender. If they are older swans, probing may ...

Trumpeters or Tundras? -- Aelise -- 31 March 2014

For the second year in a row, we are visited by a family of what appear to be Trumpeter swans. I have not heard their call, so it's hard to say, but could they also be Tundra swans? They are white ...

Re: Trumpeters or Tundras? -- The Regal Swan -- 31 March 2014

Hi Aelise From the shape of the bill, they look like Trumpeters. However, from the size, they look small but this could just be the distance from you and the birds. The other issue is that we can't ...

Food for orphaned baby swans -- Jeanne -- 31 March 2014

Mom dad gone. What the best to feed them and will they know to eat. I own several pair of swans but ins raise them

Re: Food for orphaned baby swans -- The Regal Swan -- 31 March 2014

Hi Jeanne Use poultry layer mash with finely cracked corn.They need the corn as an important source of Vitamin A. Add small pieces of lettuce. Place lettuce on top of water with mash and corn ...

What is the youngest a male swan can be fertile? -- Betty -- 30 March 2014

A female swan 3 years old and a male 2 years old have built a nest and have gone through the motions of mating. She now has laid 2 eggs and both are becoming aggressive. Is there a chance these eggs ...

Re: What is the youngest a male swan can be fertile? -- The Regal Swan -- 31 March 2014

Hi Betty Swans can produce viable young as early as 2 years of age. However, even though this is a possibility, the first run at egg laying and eventual hatching, may in fact be a practice run. We ...

Wet tree leaves on the swan nest -- Shaun -- 30 March 2014

Hi Folks, I am emailing you from Victoria, BC. Canada. I live on the Gorge waterfront which has been the home for a number of swan families for decades. Unfortunately, their numbers have diminished ...

Re: Wet tree leaves on the swan nest -- The Regal Swan -- 30 March 2014

Hi Shaun: There is a possibility that the swans did not like the leaves. Do you know what tree they might have originated? Some leaves and straw, such as pine, has a very caustic sap/resin that can ...

Female disappeared -- Gary -- 29 March 2014

There's been a pair of mute swans on our local lake for the past 3 years. 2 years ago their nest was trashed and eggs smashed by persons unknown. last year they successfully raised 2 cygnets from 6. ...

Re: Female disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2014

Hi Gary Predators wild and domestic including humans may have scared her or attacked her. Or she may have left temporarily from being frightened and return to the area in the near future. We are not ...

Re: Female disappeared -- Gary -- 29 March 2014

Thank you for your speedy response. I'm in Chorley Lancashire NW UK. If she was scared off how far might she go? And why didn't the male go with her? They were inseparable, I know this sound daft but ...

Re: Female disappeared -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2014

Hi Gary: If they were inseparable, this could only mean a couple of things, she was sick, attacked or picked up (rescued) by something or someone. We have seen swans separate for a couple of days. ...

Need HELP finding a reserve/rescue in GA -- Laura -- 29 March 2014

Hello, My original email to you was 3/20 "4 swans co-existing", things have been getting pretty ugly! we have had several rescue's this past week, including two this morning. One of our ...

Re: Need HELP finding a reserve/rescue in GA -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2014

Hi Laura: Please contact Bob Knox 847-875-3947 at Knox Swans and Dogs. He will help you. Sheila

Female mating swans -- Gillian -- 27 March 2014

Hello, we are in Arizona and our neighbor kindly looks after 2 female swans on our lake. They mate and recently laid 8 eggs…..we are having trouble believing they are both female. Can you offer any ...

Re: Female mating swans -- The Regal Swan -- 27 March 2014

Hi Gillian: Your swans are doing fine and acting like swans. Nature tells the swans when it is time to mate and nest, regardless if they can produce viable young. If an opposite gendered swan is not ...

Swan eggs -- Rachel -- 25 March 2014

There is a female swan nesting very near my home. She has 5-8 babies every year about the end of April. However, this year has been extremely cold and snowy. I noticed last week that she was sitting ...

Re: Swan eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 26 March 2014

Hi Rachael: Although there are no guarantees, swans found in the Northern Hemisphere are built for cold temperatures, even on the tundra. So, as long as the mother swan does not leave the nest/eggs ...

Re: Swan eggs -- Rachel -- 28 March 2014

Thank you so much! She stayed on the eggs all through the snow and only got up for a few seconds to shift position yesterday. It is warmer today and raining but she is still curled up with beak ...

Re: Swan eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 29 March 2014

Hi Rachel: Glad it worked out. Please keep us abreast of hatchings. The Regal Swan

Lone cygnet -- Pamela -- 24 March 2014

I live in Fife, Scotland. Today on Townhill Loch, Dunfermline, I saw two adult swans, chasing a large cygnet (which I believe is normal). However, apart from the pair of adult swans, there are no ...

Re: Lone cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 24 March 2014

Hi Pamela: This is the time of the year that the swans mate and the cygnets from the previous year are politely (not really-butt feather pulling, chasing, nipping) told by the parents to get lost and ...

Swans mating and nesting -- Charles -- 24 March 2014

We have had 2 swans on our lake for about 6 weeks but they keep flying to a friends lake about 3 miles away and then coming back. We have started feeding them to encourage them to nest here. Today my ...

Re: Swans mating and nesting -- The Regal Swan -- 24 March 2014

Hi Charles: Yes, swans will check the area for a safe place (free from predators, wild and domestic (dogs, cats and humans), easy access and exit from the water (no steep banks), good food resources ...

Swan nesting platform building plans -- Melissa -- 24 March 2014

We have a pair of mute swans on a 15 acre pond. They have been successful from time to time in hatching, but we would like to build a safer place for them to nest and raise their young. Thank you for ...

Re: Swan nesting platform building plans -- The Regal Swan -- 24 March 2014

Hi Melissa: Thanks for the offer of a contribution for the nesting platform plans. However, our plans are printed in our book, Swans of the World Habitats and we are on back-order. So, I am sending ...

Re: Swan nesting platform building plans -- Melissa -- 25 March 2014

Thank you! We will follow your lead and call Bob. Melissa

Re: Swan nesting platform building plans -- The Regal Swan -- 26 March 2014

Hi Melissa: You are very welcome. Should you need further information, please do not hesitate to contact us. The Regal Swan

Swan on ice, what food to give -- Jason -- 23 March 2014

Hello, I was wondering about how swans survive in these frigid waters of north America. I live in Michigan by Port Huron and was walking my dog when I seen three swans frozen in the canal. First I ...

Re: Swan on ice, what food to give -- The Regal Swan -- 23 March 2014

Hi Jason: Usually, swans will leave an area and look for a more hospitable area for the winter. However, this winter was brutal and many species got caught in cold fronts that they could not readily ...

Swan copulation -- Mick -- 21 March 2014

when i was riding my bike the other day, i saw two swans copulating i was just stunned to see them biting one anothers necks, it looked fearsome and a lot of croaking, it looked to me as if they were ...

Re: Swan copulation -- The Regal Swan -- 21 March 2014

Hi Mick: What you observed may or may not have been mating behavior. If it was indeed mating behavior, the two swans will eventually find each other and start to build a nest. If the swan that was on ...

Swan Attacked By Goose -- Lynne -- 21 March 2014

Hi, If you remember me from a few months back ... our female swan was hit by a car and killed in January. The remaining male was stalked by foxes but we managed to keep him alive with several aerator ...

Re: Swan Attacked By Goose -- The Regal Swan -- 21 March 2014

Hi Lynne: Most swans will chase geese. However, because your male's mate was killed, he may not have the need to defend his territory at this time. He should have an increased testosterone level ...

4 swans co-existing + Feeding station that can be installed on the edge of the water -- Laura -- 20 March 2014

Hello, Our development purchased a pair of swans several years ago. After a period of time, the swans have had 3 nests, with viable eggs. Only 3 cygnets survived (hawks, snappers etc.), they are just ...

Re: 4 swans co-existing + Feeding station that can be installed on the edge of the water -- The Regal Swan -- 21 March 2014

Hi Laura: Yes, you can use a dog café. Remove the bottom of the café since this is where you would put water under the dog feeder for a dog. Secure the dog feeder on a 7 foot fence pole (5 1/2 inch ...

Lone Trumpeter Swan -- Marie -- 19 March 2014

In Sarasota FL on a large lake, with many different water birds, lives a lone Trumpeter. He's (she) has been along for long time. Will he (she) ever get a mate? Will he (she) eventually fly away to ...

Re: Lone Trumpeter Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 19 March 2014

Hi Marie We consult in various areas of Sarasota and have never seen a Trumpeter in the area. What part of the county is the lake located? Are you sure it is a Trumpeter Swan? The Trumpeter Swans ...

Re: Lone Trumpeter Swan -- Marie -- 20 March 2014

Thank you. Actually, I will need to make sure it's a Trumpeter! Will be back with you. The lake is located near the "Celery Fields" in Sarasota, an Audubon "destination", however ...

Re: Lone Trumpeter Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 20 March 2014

Hi Marie: You are very welcome. We look forward to finding out the species. The Regal Swan

Re: Lone Trumpeter Swan -- Marie -- 21 March 2014

Ok, it's a Mute Swan. So would it ever have a mate.

Re: Lone Trumpeter Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 21 March 2014

Hi Marie: You would need to determine if the swan is owned by someone and if it had an original mate or if something happened to its mate. If it is a loner and found the pond, it could fly out and ...

Nesting swans on a golf course (Ireland) -- Michael -- 18 March 2014

What to do about a pair of nesting swans? The nest is beside a green and they will not let people on to the green to putt. What is the legal status with swans and the nest. Golf members not happy in ...

Re: Nesting swans on a golf course (Ireland) -- The Regal Swan -- 18 March 2014

Hi Michael Swans are protected throughout the UK especially their nests and young. There are two options: contact the local RSPCA to see what they can do or shut down the particular hole and play ...

Swans aggressive towards kayakers -- steve -- 16 March 2014

how can kayakers deter aggresive cobs .they are attacking us early this year, it seems..

Re: Swans aggressive towards kayakers -- The Regal Swan -- 16 March 2014

Hi Steve: With all of the rain that you have had this year, the swans may be competing for a safe habitat for their young with good food resources. If you can kayak from a distant shore or avoid ...

Would Mute Swans build more than one nest? -- Teresa -- 15 March 2014

Is it possible for Mute Swans to build more than one nest? Two swans have been building a nest in the lake behind our house for several weeks. Now they have disappeared. There are other small lakes ...

Re: Would Mute Swans build more than one nest? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 March 2014

Hi Teresa: Yes, if something scares the birds from an area or they do not like the habitat because of scarce food, shelter, etc., then they may look somewhere else. Are there predators in your area, ...

Re: Would Mute Swans build more than one nest? -- Teresa -- 16 March 2014

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my question about the mute swans. You are exactly right about the weather fluctuations. I am very disappointed not to be able to witness the entire ...

Re: Would Mute Swans build more than one nest? -- The Regal Swan -- 16 March 2014

Hi Teresa: You are very welcome. Don't give up hope yet. The swans may still return once the weather clears. The Regal Swan

Keeping swans -- Bob -- 15 March 2014

Our neighborhood in Georgia has a 50 acre lake and we would like to have a pair of swans. Since there is no fence or anything inclosing the lake, how do we best encourage the swans to stay?

Re: Keeping swans -- The Regal Swan -- 15 March 2014

Hi Bob: You will need to check with your state wildlife officials first. Many states are killing the Mute Swans because they want to reintroduce the larger Trumpeter Swans in the area for hunting ...

Swans and freezing weather -- John -- 13 March 2014

Last year we had a family of seven swans on cree lake Kendallville indiana.In the fall when the five babies lurned to fly they all took off.This week I think it was the 10th of march I went out in ...

Re: Swans and freezing weather -- The Rega Swan -- 13 March 2014

Hi John: The inclement weather has had a significant impact on winter migratory paths for many species of birds, blowing them in areas that they normally would not visit. In the case of the swans, ...

swans/geese in same area? -- Barb -- 13 March 2014

I have a young pair of black swans. Wondering if I could put them in the same pond area as Sebastopol geese that I have. Would they get along fine? Thanks

Re: swans/geese in same area? -- The Regal Swan -- 13 March 2014

Hi Barb: What is the temperament of your Black Swans? What is the temperament of your geese? How big is your pond/habitat? These three questions are going to determine whether the two species will ...

Swans bob their heads up and down -- Alan -- 12 March 2014

why do swans bob their heads up and down when they're swimming in the water?

Re: Swans bob their heads up and down -- The Regal Swan -- 12 March 2014

Hi Alan There are various reasons for head bobbing. It can act as a greeting between swans or swans and familiar humans. Head bobbing can be a part of the mating ritual as both swans will dip their ...

Flight patterns -- Bob -- 11 March 2014

I often see trumpeter swans in flight at dusk and dawn why is that?

Re: Flight patterns -- The Regal Swan -- 11 March 2014

Hi Bob: Currently, all birds including the Trumpeter Swans are on migratory paths, either on migratory wintering stop-overs or going back to their nesting areas. Due to ever present inclement weather ...

Aggressive swan -- Michelle -- 11 March 2014

I have had swans (pairs) for 6 years. After my cob was killed last year I got a new one. He is 4 years old and was hand raised. It is mating season and although we have had to deal with aggression ...

Re: Aggressive swan -- The Regal Swan -- 11 March 2014

Hi Michelle: Are you sure that the swan is not looking at its reflection and either trying to chase the “new” swan from the area or trying to mate with it? We have seen this behavior in swans and ...

UK Swan Management -- Aelise -- 11 March 2014

Hello: In light of the recent proposal by the NY Department Environmental Conservation's plan to lethally eradicate all of NY's wild mute swans, can you please provide some info on how the UK has ...

Re: UK Swan Management -- The Regal Swan -- 11 March 2014

Hi Aelise: At the 2014 Swan Symposium held in Maryland, in 2014, Her Majesty's Swan Warden, Dr. Christopher Perrins (Oxford University) presented a paper that specifically addressed this issue. After ...

black swan with leg problem -- Barb -- 8 March 2014

I have a female black swan who has hurt her leg. It is swollen at the joint. She is eating/drinking fine but drags the leg when she moves. I have tried putting her in the water and exercising the leg ...

Re: black swan with leg problem -- The Regal Swan -- 8 March 2014

Hi Barb: You need to get her to an experienced avian/waterfowl veterinarian as soon as possible. She needs to be examined, x-rayed and treated. She may have an underlying infection requiring an ...

Female only and male only swan group -- jane -- 8 March 2014

If there are only females, or only males in the swan group. Will they be depressed or aggressive when approached by humans near the lake? I have visited one resort. Who has said has flock of females ...

Re: Female only and male only swan group -- The Regal Swan -- 8 March 2014

Hi Jane: There should be no problem with an all female or an all male swan flock. The female swans will take a mate, nest and act as a family although no fertile eggs will be produced. Male swans ...

Flight Feathers -- Jeanne -- 6 March 2014

If a Mute swan has been pinioned can the flight feathers on the other wing be clipped to prevent all flight? I am a Swankeeper for the Rec. Ctrs. of Sun City West in Arizona. We currently have a pair ...

Re: Flight Feathers -- The Regal Swan -- 6 March 2014

Hi Jeanne: If the feathers are truly pinioned, the swans should not be able to fly. They may be able to get above the water, maybe 6 feet, but that should be the only height achieved. One side of the ...

Swan foot injury -- Robbie -- 6 March 2014

Looking for advice about a swan, there is a swan with a foot which is like curled up, I noticed this last year and this year the same swan has returned still with a bad foot, I don't see him go in ...

Re: Swan foot injury -- The Regal Swan -- 6 March 2014

Hi Robbie: As long as the swan can fly, eat, exit and enter the water, and generally, walk around, then there is probably no reason to intervene. However, if the swan's behavior changes or you still ...

Displaced Swan Egg -- Vicki -- 5 March 2014

Our swans built 2 nests. We found an egg outside of the nest and then found that the female swan is sitting on a nest at the same spot as the last two years.It appears that there is only one egg in ...

Re: Displaced Swan Egg -- The Regal Swan -- 6 March 2014

Hi Vicki You could try gently lifting the egg in the same position you found it and place it in the nest once she leaves the nest to take a break. However it is unlikely that it is viable as swans ...

Hundreds of swans -- Haley -- 5 March 2014

I live near a pond that is usually flocked with Canadian geese on a daily basis. I live on the Eastern Shore of MD and we have not had the greatest winter... very weird thing I saw this morning as I ...

Re: Hundreds of swans -- The Regal Swan -- 5 March 2014

Hi Haley: Do you know the color of the beaks? If they are Black with a small yellow space near their eyes, they are the Tundra swans and may be looking for water and some food on the migratory path. ...

Swan language glossary available? -- Debra -- 4 March 2014

Dear SS, I live on the tip of Bird Island in the upper lakes of Detroit. There are over 100 swans here gracing our paradise. It would be helpful to create or find a swan language glossary. Maybe we ...

Re: Swan language glossary available? -- The Regal Swan -- 4 March 2014

Hi Debra: No, we don't have a swan glossary. But, the vocalizations you are describing are pretty straightforward. 1. Hissing usually more by female swans than males, but they will both hiss to let ...

Swan walked and rolled over to our island -- Debra -- 4 March 2014

We had this male swan...according to your description [at "How to Tell a Swan Male From Female (The Regal Swan®)"]. Hungry, weak and could hardly move show up at a hole in the ice we have tirelessly ...

Wet swan eggs -- Gail -- 3 March 2014

If swan eggs get wet (tidal) early in incubation do the eggs die? The swans seem to be leaving the nest for long periods and it is approx 43 days incubation and I am worried they are not viable. Can ...

Re: Wet swan eggs -- The Regal Swan -- 3 March 2014

Hi Gail: If the water submerged the eggs for any significant amount of time, the cygnets/embryos were probably deprived of oxygen which would decrease their chances of survival. If the parents ...

Distance to fly from a pool -- Jean -- 3 March 2014

What distance does a swan need to fly from a pool?

Re: Distance to fly from a pool -- The Regal Swan -- 3 March 2014

Hi Jean Approximately 30-40 yards and the same amount of free space for lift i.e, no buildings trees or other obstacles. The Regal Swan

Sick trumpeter swan -- Ginger -- 2 March 2014

We had a group of 8 trumpeter swans on our lake 2/28/14. 3/1/14 2 were still here one was sick sitting on the ice the other kept trying to get the sick one up. A big winter storm was coming and ...

Sick trumpeter swan: Good news! -- Ginger -- 2 March 2014

Good news! The trumpeter swan mate came back for her!!! I don't know if she is strong enough to fly yet but they are swimming together and eating. Don't you love a good love story! Praying they will ...

Re: Sick trumpeter swan: Good news! -- The Regal Swan -- 2 March 2014

Hi Ginger: Trumpeter Swans are northern hemisphere birds, living in Alaska and Canada. So, their heavy down feathers keep them warm. If the swans are back together, the sick one got off the ice, made ...

Recipient of the 2013 John Muir Conservation Award (Nonprofit Conservation Award) -- The Regal Swan Foundation -- 2 March 2014

March 1, 2014 THE 2013 JOHN MUIR CONSERVATION AWARDS: FROM LOCAL TO GLOBAL FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Martinez, CA—The John Muir Association has announced the recipients of its 36th annual John Muir ...

Re: Recipient of the 2013 John Muir Conservation Award (Nonprofit Conservation Award) -- Lynne -- 4 March 2014

Congratulations. It is well deserved.

frozen lake: can swans take off for flight on ice? -- richard & lisa -- 1 March 2014

we live on lake/pond that has frozen except for a small patch--maybe 5/6 feet diameter. geese have just flown away. can swans get a normal takeoff for flight on ice? have never seen them in this ...

Re: frozen lake: can swans take off for flight on ice? -- The Regal Swan -- 1 March 2014

Hi Richard and Lisa: If the geese can take off from the ice, so can the swans as long as they have approximately 30-40 yards of clear space. This area also has to be free from obstacles such as ...

isolated swan -- Teri -- 28 February 2014

Hi. I live on Irondequoit Bay in Rochester NY. My home is on a cove. There are alot of swans that live on the bay. Yesterday I noticed that there was one swan by my dock in very shallow water that ...

Re: isolated swan -- The Regal Swan -- 28 February 2014

Hi Teri: The swan looks to be okay. As long as there is enough water for it to bathe, preen, exit, drink and possibly eat, then it should be okay. If the entire pond should freeze, the swan could ...

what can I do? -- beth -- 27 February 2014

I have been watching a group of three swans for three hours now. Two are curled up all tucked in sleeping in this cold windy weather. One is off to the side back to the wind,feathers blowing and its ...

Re: what can I do? -- The Regal Swan -- 27 February 2014

Hi Beth: If the swans are swimming, flying and/or able to get into the water and back out, then they should be okay. If the other swan does not move, it could mean that it was stuck to the ice and ...

Mother and cygnet -- Kelly -- 25 February 2014

We live in NC and had a pair of muted swans on our 15 acre pond. The female is about 8. About 4 years ago I bought a male for her. They bonded and have a couple of hatches for about 3 years now. The ...

Re: Mother and cygnet -- The Regal Swan -- 25 February 2014

Hi Kelly: You need to capture the cygnet and take it to an avian/waterfowl veterinarian that can sex the bird. If these are two females, this would be great because you would not have to worry about ...

Re: Mother and cygnet -- Kelly -- 25 February 2014

Thank you for the info. We have a board meeting this week and I will inform them of what we need to do. Thanks again. Kelly

Deceased Mute Swan -- Elizabeth -- 24 February 2014

Hello! I live in Birmingham, AL at an apartment complex which has several pounds. There have been 2 mute swans habitating the pond. My husband and I have noticed that one swan has been missing but ...

Re: Deceased Mute Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 24 February 2014

Hi Elizabeth Yes you need to remove the carcass as soon as possible. Predators can be attracted to the area along with flies and other pests. Harmful bacteria can also be spread, so removing and ...

Re: Deceased Mute Swan -- Lynne -- 24 February 2014

Good Morning Elizabeth, I am so sorry to hear about the swan death. When our female swan was hit by a car on a highway we gathered her remains and took her to a vet. Her remains were cremated. I hope ...

Swan breeding between brothers and sisters: Genetic harm? -- Suzann -- 23 February 2014

Can brother and sister black swans breed with no genetic harm to offspring? I raised quail when my son was in 4H and the can inbreed with no problems? Suzann

Re: Swan breeding between brothers and sisters: Genetic harm? -- The Regal Swan -- 23 February 2014

Hi Suzann: Yes, the swans can inbreed with no problem. With the black swans, down the road, you may get a light coloring called Mearl or Silver. If this should happen, please let us know because we ...

In Response To: Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- Nelly -- 23 February 2014

Hello! I wanted to send a quick update on Big Bird. After she flew away she spent a couple of weeks in the steas (there were sightings of a lone mute swan) and then returned for good to the ...

Found Black Swan - Concerned about gators -- Jeanie -- 19 February 2014

A Black Swan appeared in South Louisiana recently and seems quite content in a large marsh pond with thousands of ducks. He's apparently happy eating Widgeon grass. Does that supply all his needs? ...

Re: Found Black Swan - Concerned about gators -- The Regal Swan -- 19 February 2014

Hi Jeanie: We would strongly advise you to get the swan out of that area. It will be killed by an alligator. The swan might have been displaced due to the inclement weather and lost its way. We would ...

Re: Found Black Swan - Concerned about gators -- Jeanie -- 19 February 2014

How do I go about finding the swan's home short of calling every zoo in the South? Is there an internet site that posts lost swans? Thank you for your help.

Re: Found Black Swan - Concerned about gators -- The Regal Swan -- 20 February 2014

Hi Jeanie: If the swan does not have a leg or wing tag, neck collar or a microchip, there is no way of knowing where it came from unless someone posts something in the newspaper or online. Which ...

Cold Weather/Snow Storms -- Kristen -- 17 February 2014

I drive by a pond every day that has 2 Swans & they have lived there for years. ( I've haven't noticed them there in the winter, before this winter) (I was told a couple of years ago that someone ...

Is it better to get 2 male or 2 female swans? -- Bob -- 15 February 2014

I would like to get 2 Mute Swans but don't want any babies. Is it better to have 2 females or 2 males.

Re: Is it better to get 2 male or 2 female swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 15 February 2014

Hi Bob: We think either gender would be fine, but there are some considerations that might better fit your needs. First, are there any predators, domestic or wild? Either gender may be killed if ...

Swans and frozen lakes -- John -- 13 February 2014

Hi..We have a growing population of I believe mute swans on the shores of Georgian Bay Ontario at Collingwood. There is about a dozen of then huddled together on the ice beside a small island next to ...

Re: Swans and frozen lakes -- The Regal Swan -- 13 February 2014

Hi John: The swans could be either Mute, Tundra or Trumpeter. If there is no water in the area, they could starve, drown if they fall into too small an area and cannot get out, become dehydrated, ...

Swans not eating -- James -- 14 February 2014

I have 2 swans in my pond and some crack corn in a feeder underneath a fir tree......they have been in the pond since May 2013....The feeder is about 12 feet from the water edge....its is cold here ...

Re: Swans not eating -- The Regal Swan -- 14 February 2014

Hi James: Are the swans going near the feeder or is the area near the feeder frozen? If the area is frozen, they may not be able to access the food. You may need to try and get the food dropped in ...

Re: Swans not eating -- James -- 16 February 2014

They are both going to the feeder some times (once every 2 or 3 days) ....the male seems to be eating and the female sits by her side and does not eat.........when it was not very cold....they would ...

Re: Swans not eating -- The Regal Swan -- 16 February 2014

Hi James: We are so sorry about your loss. If a swan stops eating, this is a sign that something is terribly wrong with the bird. She may have been unable to keep warm, dry, water repellent or had a ...

Can black swans see different colors? -- Darrel -- 10 February 2014

I am wanting to know if the black swan can see different colors such as blue, red, white etc. We have swan on our small lake and thief are people with 1meter sail boats. She seems to not like the ...

Re: Can black swans see different colors? -- The Regal Swan -- 11 February 2014

Hi Darrel: She most likely can distinguish something about the boats, whether it is color or something else, such as size, sounds or people. If someone did something to her such as swatted at her ...

Mystery mute swan illness -- David -- 10 February 2014

We have had problems with losing adult swans at one particular site, a large shallow lake, but have not been able to come up with a cause. Many of the swan deaths are from fox attacks, but only after ...

Re: Mystery mute swan illness -- The Regal Swan -- 11 February 2014

Hi David: Have you tried to have the swans necropsied? They may be eating something poisonous in the field that is causing them to waste. Lead poisoning or other heavy metals may cause the wasting. ...

Killing of Mute Swans -- The Regal Swan -- 10 February 2014

Hi Everyone: We are posting a video (posted by Linda Edwards) and a letter that we are asking everyone to send to Facebook or other social media so that people can understand how and why the Mute ...

Winter -- Michelle -- 10 February 2014

We have a pair of swans. This winter has been bad. I was told by their previous owners I did not need to build them a shelter. The pond is frozen. They are now up by the house and in the driveway. ...

Swan Cull -- Susan -- 9 February 2014

I can't believe that there is going to be a swan cull in America. I have lived on a lake in New Jersey for 13 years and the swans our no Trouble at all. How are these people getting away with it? ...

Swollen Swan toe -- Alan -- 5 February 2014

Recently, we found a mute swan with the middle toe swollen and the webbing on both sides torn. Our vet xrayed the foot and said the bones were much larger than normal. Any ideas as to the cause? The ...

Re: Swollen Swan toe -- The Regal Swan -- 6 February 2014

Hi Alan: Torn webbing could indicated turtle or other predator attack. Is there any indication of pellets or lead shot? This would indicate a swan that has been shot. The swollen bones could mean a ...

Female Swan Sick after giving birth -- A.Balakrishnan -- 5 February 2014

Hi, I have 2 swans (Raj Hans), a male and a female. The female laid 8 eggs and sat on them for 3-4 weeks. All 8 have hatched. Now since then she started eating less and movements reduced. Firstly she ...

Re: Female Swan Sick after giving birth -- The Regal Swan -- 6 February 2014

Hi: There could be a number of possible issues, but all not good. If she has stopped eating, the swan needs to be seen by a veterinarian experienced in waterfowl. Because most female swans lose ...

Mute Swan Bubbler Question: Keeping the swan safe from the foxes -- Lynne -- 5 February 2014

Hi, If you remember me from a few weeks back ... our female swan was hit by a car last month. The male is on our frozen lake and we are unable to catch him. Last night i was awake because he was ...

Re: Mute Swan Bubbler Question: Keeping the swan safe from the foxes -- The Regal Swan -- 5 February 2014

Hi Lynne: Hopefully, he has street smarts and stays in the water at night. If he stays on the bank, that is the problem because the foxes and other predators can walk out and grab him. If you can ...

Re: Mute Swan Bubbler Question: Keeping the swan safe from the foxes -- Lynne -- 7 February 2014

Hi, We cannot catch him I tried. The space is not big enough and the position is wrong to try to herd him into shore. As soon as you go down near him he jumps onto the ice and moves away. The ice is ...

Smallest size for pond for pair of black swans? -- Suzann -- 4 February 2014

I rescued a pair of. Black Swans from a golf course in Palm Springs. The male was very aggressive and animal control gave an order to get rid of them. I took them to my kennel and have read ...

Re: Smallest size for pond for pair of black swans? -- The Regal Swan -- 5 February 2014

Hi Suzann: The Australian Black Swans breed twice a year, once in the spring and again in the summer. You are going to have a lot of cygnets in a very short time. You will need to contact a swan ...

Mute Swan Illness: Swan does not raise its head up, no strength in neck -- Dee -- 3 February 2014

I HAVE A MALE MUTE SWAN IN OUR LITTLE POND AND HE IS ALMOST A YEAR OLD NOW, HE DOESN'T RAISE HIS HEAD UP, HE ACTS LIKE HE HAS NOT STRENGTH IN HIS NECK. HE IS EATING AND SWIMMING IN POND OK. I DON'T ...

Re: Mute Swan Illness: Swan does not raise its head up, no strength in neck -- The Regal Swan -- 3 February 2014

Hi Dee: This could be a sign of botulism, poisoning or some other neurological problem. Get him to a waterfowl/avian veterinarian quickly as he may need chelation, but definitely supportive care. If ...

Brought a Black Swan home: How to take care of it? -- Marion -- 1 February 2014

Ok here is my story, I found this black swan in my parking lot at work, i took it back to the place i thought it came from and found out the people that had it moved and just left it... and the water ...

Re: Brought a Black Swan home: How to take care of it? -- The Regal Swan -- 1 February 2014

Hi Marion: The best scenario for this swan is to get it to a wildlife/waterfowl rehabilitation center to see if there is something wrong with it. Bread is not going to keep the swan alive as it ...

Lone Swan -- Jeanette -- 1 February 2014

We have a lone swan in our Anchorage Lake here in Louisville, KY. A neighbor told me that its mate was killed by snapping turtle. The swan just weathered a brutal arctic winter here with a near ...

Re: Lone Swan -- The Regal Swan -- 1 February 2014

Hi Jeanette: Can you tell us what color the swan is that you see. Is it black or white? We have had a comment from someone losing a black swan and this may be the mate. If the lake is completely ...

Cold Weather Question -- Josh -- 31 January 2014

Greetings, Let me start by saying I know very little about swans. I'm just a bit concerned because I drive by a cemetery near my home in Illinois all the time which contains a small enclosed pond ...

Re: Cold Weather Question -- The Regal Swan -- 1 February 2014

Hi Josh: Can you tell us exactly which cemetery. If it is the Ridgewood Cemetery near Milwaukee and Central, they have a bubbler and the pond is usually open. If the pond is not wide open, or if this ...

Lethal control of swans proposed in New York -- Aelise -- 31 January 2014

Hopefully they will find a solution which doesn't involve lethal methods. Containing swans in designated areas, and limiting reproduction seems feasible. I wonder how they manage in the UK where they ...

Re: Lethal control of swans proposed in New York -- The Regal Swan -- 31 January 2014

Hi Aelise: We are the ones that have already commented in the NY Times and other media on this travesty called scientific research. This is the most non-scientific, biased and arbitrary assault on ...

Brought black swan to our shed after lake froze -- Elizabeth -- 27 January 2014

Hi there, I live in Kentucky and our weather this winter has been the harshest yet on our black swans. We had 2 females, almost 4 years old. I lost one 3 weeks ago during the zero degree temp and ...

Re: Brought black swan to our shed after lake froze -- The Regal Swan -- 27 January 2014

Hi Elizabeth You are doing everything correctly. Just make sure that the straw/bedding is mucked daily so that no mold grows and she should be fine. Keep her indoors until the majority of the lake ...

Re: Brought black swan to our shed after lake froze -- Lynne -- 27 January 2014

Hello Elizabeth, I am so sorry for your swan. If you see my earlier post, our female mute swan was killed by a car on January 9th leaving our male alone on the frozen lake. I have been worried sick ...

Re: Brought black swan to our shed after lake froze -- Elizabeth -- 27 January 2014

Hi Lynne, Your poor swan!! I am so sorry. It is so heartbreaking to lose a swan isn't it? My swan is very used to me coming down to the lake to see her. She saw me coming and immediately walked over ...

Re: Brought black swan to our shed after lake froze -- Elizabeth -- 27 January 2014

Lynne, I just followed your other post. I wonder if my own swan was chased or left our lake... I never thought about that option until he responded to your post. Ugh. I never even thought to look ...

Re: Brought black swan to our shed after lake froze -- The Regal Swan -- 27 January 2014

Hi Elizabeth: Be careful with the small tub unless you are staying with her as if the tub is too high, she can hurt her legs and feet. If you allow her to swim in a tub, she may also go crazy and ...

Re: Brought black swan to our shed after lake froze -- Elizabeth -- 27 January 2014

Oh I am glad you said that about the tub. I won't use that then. When the lake or most of it thaws, then I will start the soak to prepare her to go back out.

Re: Brought black swan to our shed after lake froze -- The Regal Swan -- 28 January 2014

Hi Elizabeth Excellent she'll do fine. Just keep her indoors in extreme cold temperatures. The Regal Swan

Mute swan in Michigan: Fines? -- Mike -- 27 January 2014

hello, I am in the process of trying to rehabilitate a mute swan in Michigan. The DNR says it is illegal to rehabilitate mute swans. Which I don't really care what they say. I dont believe in any ...

Re: Mute swan in Michigan: Fines? -- The Regal Swan -- 27 January 2014

Hi Mike Not really sure of the fines but we are with you. Fines in most cases run $100-$500+. This is the most despicable act supported and instigated by U.S. Wildlife Services. We are working across ...

Are they ok in this North East weather -- Robyn -- 25 January 2014

I have two mutes for about 3 years, and they've weathered every winter storm, but this years been exceptionally brutal. They are sleeping in the snow right now and the snow falling is accumulating. ...

Re: Are they ok in this North East weather -- The Regal Swan -- 25 January 2014

Hi Robyn: You probably need to bring them into a shed, garage or barn (safe from predators digging under or climbing into the shelter). Predators can access the swans on snow and ice, so you need to ...

Two swans been curled up on my frozen river for more then 5 hours?? -- Loretta -- 25 January 2014

Hi, just hoping you can tell me if the two swans are stuck on the ice or just resting? They been in the same spot all day about 100 yards off shore. I love these swans I watch the mom and dad and ...

Re: Two swans been curled up on my frozen river for more then 5 hours?? -- The Regal Swan -- 25 January 2014

Hi Loret