We have a pair of mute swans that have successfully bred 2nd year now. Last year our pen had 4 and this year laid 6 eggs.

5 hatched over a 2 day period with the 6th egg just lying there. My husband & I assumed the egg was dead and removed it from the nest as the other 5 were taken to the water by both the cob & pen.

We brought it inside and were going to dispose of it when we heard the little whistle sounds coming from within. The cygnet hatched yesterday morning after having it in an incubator for less than a day. We named it Gandalf and he looks to be progressing well. We have done very little to touch it as we would like to give him back to his mother.

Is it still possible that she will take him back into the family? Will the cob accept him as well?

We are in South Africa.

Please help.
Navenka