Ask the Swan Specialist

Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio
By:The Regal Swan
Date: 13 October 2013

Hi Nelly:

Actually, this is good news and fits the scenario. It was probably a young juvenile who was told by the parents, get lost because the migration and new breeding season is beginning. The juveniles will sometimes get separated from the flock due to being fatigued or losing its way.

Looking at your photos, once the bird got into your complex, there was no easy way out, either a roadway or a building blocked its take-off. Swans need a substantial amount of runway to take off. By taking it to the Sanctuary, three things were accomplished:

1. It was fed and allowed to rebuild its strength.

2. It met up with other waterfowl that will show it a migratory path and good food/water/habitat resources.

3. It was provided ample runway to take-off and fly.

So, this is really a good scenario and thanks to you and the Sanctuary, the bird should have a normal swan life. If she stays with the flock of geese, there is a possibility that she may return in the future and even with a mate. Only time will tell, but at least she was provided a good start to an adult life. The Regal Swan

Messages In This Thread

Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- Nelly -- 9 October 2013
Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- The Regal Swan -- 10 October 2013
Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- Nelly -- 10 October 2013
Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- Nelly -- 10 October 2013
Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- The Regal Swan -- 10 October 2013
Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- Nelly -- 12 October 2013
Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- The Regal Swan -- 13 October 2013
Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- Nelly -- 10 October 2013
Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- Nelly -- 10 October 2013
Re: Help with elderly mute swan in Ohio -- Nelly -- 10 October 2013