The laws in Florida regarding exotic species now require a permit to have swans even if on a private lake. If the lake is a natural lake vs man-made, you may have a harder time in getting a permit. You will need to contact the Fish & Game Commission. In any case, you will need to treat the swans as an exotic animal, meaning humane daily upkeep and veterinary medical care.

Swans are much more labor intensive than most people think. If you get a pair of swans and they produce cygnets, you have to have the cygnets pinioned (rendered unable to fly) 1-3 weeks of age. You will then need to find a suitable home for the swans as the parents will eventually reclaim the lake as their own and chase the cygnets. If they can't fly, they will begin to wander and usually into places that will get them injured or killed, i.e., woodlines, people's houses with dogs or cats, etc.

If your habitat has the potential for alligators, bobcats, coyotes, panther, snapping turtles, raccoons, etc., (all native to Florida lakes and woodline areas), the chance for survival for very long with the inability to fly or escape from the predator is very limited. We hope this information is of benefit. The Regal Swan
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