Swans do not hibernate, they migrate to warmer areas. Are you sure this swan is clipped or that it is stuck in the lake and cannot fly because of take-off problems?

If the pond is completely frozen, then the swan does have a problem. He is not going to be able to eat, swim, drink water or generally care for himself. First, you need to find out if the swan owner is feeding the swan. As long as he is being fed, it is not the best situation, but at least the swan is receiving nutrition. Try to provide the swan owner with information regarding the care of the swan if this is possible.

If you cannot speak with the owner or you do not see him feeding the swan, then you need to check your state laws regarding the possession of a swan. If the swan is protected under a state law which requires a permit for possession, then you can go to the state officials. This will result in the swan being captured and relocated. This will probably not endear you to your neighbor and if a permit is required and he does not have a permit, he could be fined. In any case, the utmost concern should be the welfare of the swan.

If there is not a permit required, then you would need to get the permission of the swan owner to intervene. You could call a wildlife rehabilitator (rescuer) in your area, but if the lake is privately owned lake, they would then need to have permission to gain access to the swan. The swan should have been removed from the lake before the water froze, however, hind sight is always great. In this case, it seems that the swan keeper either does not care about the welfare of the swan or just does not know enough about a swan's care to ensure that this situation does not occur.

Hopefully, the ice will melt just enough to get the swan to the edge of the lake where he hopefully will stay for the rest of the winter.

These type situations are why The Regal Swan Foundation, Inc., was developed. We want to spread the word that humane veterinary medical and general upkeep of these beautiful birds must be maintained. Let us know how things work out. The Regal Swan