How tragic. The fisherman should have been brought up on criminal trespassing and animal cruelty laws. The veterinary clinic either did not know how to take care of him or did not want to mess with him since many states consider Mute Swans an invasive species, which they are not. However, federal and state wildlife entities have told veterinarians and even wildlife rehabilitators not to treat and let them birds die or euthanize them. This whole scenario should be a criminal case.

As far as a new mate, please contact Bob Knox at Knox Swans (847) 875-3947 and tell him this story. Ask him the appropriate age for the new male. Bob will also help advise you how to reintroduce the new male with a predator proof pen to help the swan learn its new habitat, you and how it gets it food. The enclosure will also allow the swans to introduce themselves. Please let us know if we may be of further assistance. The Regal Swan