We introduced 2 sister trumpeter swans into our large pond last fall. They are about 2 years old and were inseparable at their original farm and here as well. About a month ago, they started to act like they were nesting and starting to come for food but separately, which we assumed they were taking turns on the nest. About 2 weeks ago we only saw one swan and found the other sitting on an island in the middle of the pond dead. There was no evidence of a struggle, no injury to the swan and no eggs. The only thing we had noticed was the recent separation of the two sisters and a large fight with several canadian geese a few days before that also wanted to use the island for nesting. We have watched the other swan and she seems fine, prefering to eat vegetation from the pond rather than the corn and pellets that she eats during the winter. I realize that there is not a lot of information here as to the cause of death of the one swan - we did not think to do a necropsy at the time (only an external exam) and I cannot think of any reason for her to have developed botulism (we have had lots of rain but no recent draught)- but was interested if there is anything that we should consider to protect the remaining swan, Lily.

Lastly, given that the remaining swan is fairly young, is it a good idea for companionship and for their safety to try to introduce another trumpeter swan? Can it be another female since our permit will not allow us to breed cygnets or are they likely to fight? If better for Lily to have a companion, should it be from the same breeder or will Knox Swans sell us a single swan as we are allowed only two? I assume that we would have to introduce a new swan to the environment starting 2 weeks in a pen etc. while Lily remains in the pond at large? (The pond is too large for us to catch her).

Thank you so much for running this "helpline", I realize it is a true labor of love and very much appreciate it. We really do love Lily, she seems very calm and happy (if I can say that)and so maybe my concern is more about me missing her sister than her, but we want to do the best for Lily so that she can have a very long and happy life on our pond.

Thank you.