Usually, juvenile swans will peck at each other, little love pecks. So, we would not be too concerned about the pecking, just make sure that each gets the same amount of food. You can do this by throwing the food to the dominant swan and moving him to the left or right and then throwing food to the female. Each will get food and stay a distance so the pecking can be controlled. Two people feeding at the same time and redirecting each swan's attention would work well.

As far as the diarrhea, did the veterinarin check the blood for infection or blood chemistry problems or the feces for parasites? Giardia, worms or even some fungal infections such as aspergilliosis and an array of other infections could be the cause. We would look at the fecal matter and ask the veterinarian for a dewormer or anti-fungal medication safe for birds if this comes up positive. An avian waterfowl veterinarian could help you with this information, or contact the administrator of this website and she can provide you with a contact for our swan specialists.

As long as she is eating, pooping and preening, this is a good sign. If the eating starts to go then this would be a serious turn of events. Also, check her temperature as it should run between 100-106 degrees F. (swans may get stressed and the temperature will rise during handling) so a small temperature rise can be expected. In any case, the blood chemistry panels should help rule out any infection or possible protein/nutritional or dehydration/electrolyte problems.

If she is not getting adequate nutrition due to competion, then this would have a neurological effect on walking, balance, etc. B-12 shots and some nutritional supplements (like EXTRACT used for small birds) added to her food would not hurt and would help her catch up on any nutritional deficits. We hope this helps. Please let us know about her progress. The Regal Swan