Yes, this is the classic example of bumblefoot. It is caused by a staph infection, so you need to wear gloves any time that you might come in contact with the swan's foot as a staph infection can be contagious. You might use a spray such as Bactriban. DO NOT use an ointment as it can get on the swan's feathers which can prevent it from being water repellent. It is not likely that you will completely heal the condition, but you might use the spray 3 times a day and keep the bird dry (indoors for about a week) and on a soft surface such as towels or sheets. DO NOT use newspaper as it can be very slick and you do not want to cause a leg injury from a slick surface.

There are some avian veterinarians that may try to use surgery to correct the condition, but there are no guarantees and will require the swan to be kept dry and indoors for a greater length of time.

In any case, as long as the bumble foot is not seeping (blood or other body fluid) and the swan can still manage to exit and enter the water, then there really is no reason to intervene. We hope that this information is of assistance. The Regal Swan