Does your pond freeze during the winter? If so, you will need to get a de-icer/aerator for the pond (non-winch type as this can injure a swan). If there are predators in the area, (i.e., fox, coyote, bobcat, etc.), they will go onto the frozen pond and grab the swans as the swans cannot fly, walk very well on ice and escape the predator. Frozen ponds will also cause the birds to get stuck and possibly drown because they cannot get back on the ice if they fall through. Additionally, their food source is extremely limited and they will need extra supplemental food, i.e., poultry layer pellet, cracked corn and lettuce to help them get through the winter and sustain some vegetation in their diet.

The cracked corn acts as a filler while providing Vitamin A, a much needed vitamin to prevent neurological problems. The poultry layer pellet provides vitamins, minerals and micro-nutrients that the swans' require. Lettuce provides the vegetation that is very scarce during the winter months.

If the pond freezes, and you cannot get an aerator and predators are a concern, then you will need to provide an indoor shelter for the swans during the winter months. This is not a difficult task. You just need to have a shelter that is enclosed so that predators cannot dig under, crawl into or over the shelter and access the swans. Garages, sheds, barns are great sources for this winter protection. You will need to provide a zero entrance water feature such as a kiddie pool sunk into the ground with the ability to pump out dirty water and refill with clean water on a daily basis. The feature needs to have a zero entrance so that the swans do not sustain leg or foot injuries from trying to climb in and out of steep areas.

Swans are great to have for children to learn the importance of waterfowl, wetland habitats, etc., but they are a labor of love. In a captive setting, they must be cared for because they cannot fly which means they cannot readily escape danger such as predators and cannot migrate to escape inclement weather. Therefore, their total care is the responsibility of their owners.

If you cannot provide the type of shelter required, you may need to contact a local wildlife/waterfowl rehabilitation center to see if they can help during the winter months. Another great contact is Bob Knox at Knox Swans in Illinois. Bob keeps swans in the winter and knows exactly what will be required in your area. He will be a wonderful resource for you. Good luck and enjoy these beautiful, elegant creatures. The Regal Swan