It could be any of the above. The Canada geese probably have nothing to do with this phenomenon because we are seeing it in one of our swans and we have no geese. We are not exactly sure about the cause, but our veterinarians have taken feather samples and some scrapings. Parasites and a bacterial infection has been ruled out in our swan's case. We have even entertained the possibility of stress, dietary concerns or the rubbing of the neck against an object. However, the bird is not losing weight, does not act sick and is extremely healthy.

We have noticed that the outside of the feather does not seem to be forming. Because it is not life-threatening, our veterinarians are hesitant to conduct a biopsy because it means placing the swan under anesthesia. Unlike people, animals may not be able to withstand a cosmetic procedure, especially with the use of anesthesia. At this time, we are fairly confident that it is not life-threatening in our swan's case.

If you feel that your swan may be sick, you should get the bird to an avian veterinarian to make sure that it is not something else. The Regal Swan