Ask the Swan Specialist

Re: my swan is missing
By:The Regal Swan
Date: 24 May 2012
In Response To: my swan is missing (Laurie)

Hi Laurie:

Many things could have caused the swan to go missing. Predation (domestic or wild animal, human), illness, or he found someone new. Yes, this can happen, but it totally dependent upon the successful raising of young through the years and the individual swan. In this case, the leaving of the area for another female may not be a viable explanation. Predators from the wild could include raccoon, snake, (yes a snake bite could kill him or make him extremely ill), panther, alligator (not sure where you are located), bobcat, wolf, soft-shelled and snapping turtle. Normally, if a predator takes a swan for food, there would be some remnants of feathers, etc. If the swan could fly and he successfully escaped, he could have flown to another pond or area where there are predators. Conversely, if he regains his composure, he may try to fly back to his family. Again, flying away and not returning to his longtime mate and family is also a unique and improbable scenario as most males will fight for their territory and family.

There is also another possibility and unfortunately, this could be the case in today's monetary world. He could have been stolen by someone who needed to replace a male swan to start their own flock or breeding program. Let's hope this is not the case. Hopefully, you will let us know he has returned in safe stead! The Regal Swan

Messages In This Thread

my swan is missing -- Laurie -- 24 May 2012
Re: my swan is missing -- The Regal Swan -- 24 May 2012