Ask the Swan Specialist

Re: Tip of Swan Primary Flight Feathers is pinkish
By:The Regal Swan
Date: 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. Unless the swan's immune system is suppressed, there is no concern with the coloration. If the swan has something wrong and cannot remove the bacteria, then the swan can suffer malnutrition and dehydration because it spends so much time preening to clean the feathers and stops performing other normal daily activities. The swan can also drown because the uropygial (preen) gland cannot keep up with normal oils to keep the bird's feathers water repellant.

If the coloring is in a small area, there should not be much concern. However, if you can send us a photo and provide the website administrator with your phone number (it will not be published), we will get back to you directly and let you know. The Regal Swan

Messages In This Thread

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