Swans are Social Birds. They Behave Differently with a Companion or Mate.
Swan will Live Alone – But….
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Lone Swans can be Captive or Feral.. They are Alone. This Female Mute was a Discarded Pet.
March 2024 – I can not Think of my Life without the Swans.. I have been Loving and Caring for Swans for 20 Years..
In Fact February 18, 2024 was 20 Years to the Day I Encountered my first Swan. February 18, 2004.
She was a Discard Pet that was spending her Days at a nearby Boat Launch along the Susquehanna River. She was Alone and seemed so Sad..
Thanks to the Internet, I did some Searches and started to Learn about Swans..
My Love of Swans was firmly set when in 2005 a BIG, Wonderful Mute Male flew into our Area and Pair-Bonded with her.. I was Hooked..
There have been MANY Adventures since then..
This Female Lived for Four Year Alone on the River. Literally, “Out of the Blue” a Mature Mute Cob Flew into our River System. He Found the Lonely Pen.. They Bonded Quickly. It was Wonderful to Witness their Happy Union. Now SunRises were Delightful. ***************************************
A Lone Feral Male Swan on a Large River System.***************************************
A Skittish Young Female Mute Alone on another River System. A Different River – A Different Female Mute. After Several Weeks Alone she Disappeared. ******************************
A Captive Bred-Released Trumpeter Swan Travels Alone. It took Weeks to Gain his Trust.
****** *********************************
This Feral Swan came from some place Up River. Joining with Two other Swans Living in this Area..
One of her Companions was Seriously Injured. Her other Companion was Shot. This Feral Swan was Alone for over Six Months. During the Winter we Visited her with Food every Day. ****** ****** ****** ************************************
After 23-24 Years Together his Brother Died. At 24 Years Old, the Cob Accepted an 18 Month Old Female. ************************************
This Mute Cob is Full Wing… He Flies from Pond to Pond..All over the Area. ************************************
Pinioned – his Female was Full Wing – she Flew Away. Now he is ALL Alone on a BIG Pond. ************************************
A Raccoon Killed his Female…They had been Together for Many Years. He would Flirt when I came to Visit. Lonely – He Walked Away from his Property.. Gone. ***********************************
This Mute Cob is Living Alone. His Female was Shot.. He Never Accepted another Female. ***********************************
Sold with his Sister – Both had been Poorly Fed… Severely Under Weight – She Died. With a Proper Diet he becomes a BIG Health Cob.This Cob and his New Pen Shared Years of their Lives Together. ************************************
We Moved our Young Rescued Cygnet to his New Home. We were Arranging for Two Females to Join Him. His New Companions are Being Treated for an Illness. “Meadow” was a VERY Lonely Cygnet.. There is NO Way to Tell this Very Lonely Cygnet, We Hope “They Girls” will be Well Soon. Finally Happy Together. We were Lucky our Threesome was together for 8 Years. They had Known One Another since they were 6 Months Old. ************************************
A Companion Sister was Killed.Alone for many Months. Finally A Companion. But Not a Mate. Yes, there are Two Swans on the Pond. But they are Both Males ! This Relationship will be Troubled. ************************************
This Young Female was Chased Away from her Family. We had No Way to Catch a Full-Wing Swan on the River. There are Too many Rocks and Shallow Place for a Boat. Kayaks and Canoes are Too Slow. *****************************************
A Feral Male Swan Living Along a Local Creek.
A Feral Swan Wandering from Place to Place has little Support.After Months Alone he Disappeared. ****************************
This Mute Cob is Singing into the Air. Hoping Another Swan will Hear him. ******************************
A Mature Rogue Female Swan Stole her Male.We Moved this Young Female to a Safer Home.
In a Few Weeks she will be Introduced to a Male. She will be a Happy Swan Again.They Nested the Following Spring. We Lost this Beautiful Pen a Few Days after her Cygnet Hatched.. Now the Cob was Alone Again. Dear little “Puppy” did not Survive.. ****************************************
This Female was Alone – Her Mate had been Killed. She Welcomed a Young Male. ****** She has Company Again. *****************************************
These Females Lost their Male Companion-Mates.
This Female Mute Swan is Telling the Dock Post “I Like You.”
She has been Alone for close to Two Years.
This Gentle Female Died Alone. ******************************
Several Days Ago.. Her Mate Died.
She is Alone for the First time in Five Years.
Alone No More. A Female Cygnet is her New Companion. ****************************************
Not Pinioned this Young Swan Flew Away.****** ****** There were Ducks and Friendly People at the Marina. A Hunter Eventually Shot this Swan. ****************************************
Her Companions LEFT their Safe Pond. She Sits Alone – Waiting for their Return. ****** Even with Lots of Feathered Ducks – She was So Lonely. *******************************************
First her Female Companion Died. Then her Rescued Male Companion Died from Injuries. ****** She has Lots of Feathered Friend.. Finally, we Arrange for her to Move to a New Home. The Mate of the young Pen below was Killed. ****** The Young Pens are Surprised to See Each Other. We Brought Treats for the Girls. Their Upper Necks are Puffed-Up with Happiness. YEAH ! ! It Only took a Short Time for these Pens to Become Best Friends. ********************************************************************
A Mute Cob is Facing the Winter Months Alone.
A Paddling of Ducks are his Only Companions. We Tried to Rescue him – No Luck.. *********************************
This Young Female was Alone for Over a Year. “At least they have Feathers.”
We Introduced our Rescued Male and they were Great Company for each Other. *****************************
Some Lone Swans will Seek Companionship from Ducks and Geese.They want to have Companions to Preen with – Sit with.
She is Nesting on an Island.. Fairly Safe.
A Female Nesting Alone is Very Vulnerable. She will be VERY Vulnerable to Predators.
She needs to “Sits” for 42 Days before Removing the Eggs.
A Female Swan Nesting Alone may NEED some Extra Protection Around her Nest. If She is Nesting on an Island.. that Helps. *********************************************
This Lonely Female Swan Shared her Food with the Pond Koi. They Grabbed her Food – Gone in a Minute. She Finally Died. *************************************
A “Rogue” Female Swan took the Mature Male away from this Young Female… Now she is Alone.We Started to Look for a New Male…. It took Time.She wanted some Companionship.. Enter an Egret.“Hannah” tried to Talk to the Egret – “Snort.”They do not Speak the same Language…Her “Snort” scared the Egret away.********************************************
A Lone Swan will usually Look forward to Human Company. ****** We Helped to Arrange for a New Female..
Alone No Longer.. A Sweet Young Female joins this Older Cob. Together they Watched a Family Wedding.. *********************************
This Black Australian Cob has No Mate. He is Nesting Alone. *****************************
This Young Male was Rescued from a Dangerous Situation. He Spent his First Winter Alone. This Pair of Ducks became his Favorite Companions. The Following Summer he Welcomed a Shy Female Cygnet. A Year Later they are Happy – Bonded. Now Winter is a Wonderful Time of Year for them. They are Adorable Together. ******************************
Tragically, her Mate was Killed Protecting her while she was Nesting. Now she has a New Mate to Sleep with.. So Cute. *************************
The Sudden Loss of her Sister Companion.. She Still looks for her.
We Arranged for a Rescued Male to Join her Pond. This Young Rescued Male was Full-Winged – Clipped Twice.. but he had WanderLust.
We can not Explain Property Lines to the Swans. *********************************
Going into Survival Mode. A Week Ago we could Hand Feed this Young Female and her Sister. ***************************************
A Feral Swan Living Alone.. with Canadian Geese. They are Company… But.*********************************
A Mute Cob Alone for Months Welcomes a Young Female. ****** ****** ******************
A Mature Pen Welcomes a Young Male Cygnet. ***********************************************************
I have seen Lone Male Swans “Singing” up into the Air. They are Calling – Hope to Locate Another Swans. Especially a Female..Winter Time Alone is NO Fun. The Long Dark Night are Cold and Lonely.
******
****** Their Happy Relationship was Short.. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
These Three Mute Swans came onto our Local River System at Different Times.. Each Alone. They Found Each other and formed a Threesome. ****** ****** In April there were Two Feral Swans.
Swans are Very Different when they have Company. In November there were Three Feral Swans. Life is Better with Friends. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& This Information is a Work in Progress….. As I learn more I will add to this information.. Compiled by (C) L.M.Sweger Updates March 2024 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
One Winter’s Visits with a Lone Feral Mute Swan. As soon as she saw our Van she Headed toward Us. ****** ****** ****** ****** ****** ****** Several People helped Feed “Harmony” during the Winter. ****** ****** ****** ****** ****** ****** She Trusted Us..And we would Bring Good Food and Treats. And some Companionship.****** ****** A Gentle Feral Swan Living Alone. We Tried to Catch her… No Luck. In the End She was Shot to Death.
IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO ACQUIRE MUTE SWANS FOR YOUR PRIVATE PROPERTY WATER ENVIRONMENT….. PLEASE CHECK THIS PAGE FIRST.
Before Considering Mute Swans for Your Property, It is Advisable to Check with your State’s WildLife Management Services..
Where to Find Information for Your State
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In the United States *Captive* Mute Swans are Classified as “EXOTIC.” Living Free off Private Property they are Classified as Invasive- “Feral.”
Since December 2004 Mute Swans are no longer Protected by The Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
POLICIES AND REGULATIONS FOR OWNING MUTE SWANS ARE DIFFERENT STATE BY STATE.
EACH U.S. STATE DEVELOPS THEIR OWN MANAGEMENT PLAN, POLICIES, GUIDELINES OR REGULATIONS.
The Management for Mute Swans is handled at the State Level. Each State in the United States develops their Individual Management Program.. They are being Revised all the time.
Many States are very Strict Requiring a Permit. More and More States have decided to Prohibit Mute Swan. Some have Guidelines that if Followed will allow Ownership.
Each Year the Rules Change – Always Check the Current Status. You will need to Contact your State’s Department of Natural Resources. DNR – WildLife Management Services Fish & WildLife Services – *** WaterFowl Management.
WaterFowl Breeders offering Mute Swans for Sale, May not warn you that your State has Regulations, Management Guidelines, require Permits and/or Prohibit Mute Swans in your State.
Moving Mute Swans into States that Prohibit them, may end very badly for the Swans.
PLEASE LEARN THE POLICY FOR YOUR STATE. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * TO LEARN THE STATUS OF MUTE SWANS IN YOUR STATE
SOME States have this Information readily available on their DNR Game Commission – Fish and WildLife Websites. SOME States have Little to NO information. Best to Call these States for Information.
Use these Terms to help with a “SEARCH”
(State Name) Mute Swan (Add a Word from the Following) Guidelines, Regulations, Rules, Policies, Plans, Restrictions, Codes, Prohibitions…
Example: Maryland Mute Swan Code ******* Then try a different word. Until you find information about Mute Swans.
Try to determine when the Information was Posted.. If it is more then Two years Old… Best to Call their Waterfowl Management for Update. **************************************
U.S. Fish & WildLife Service State by State…. Contact Phone #s Call 1-800-344-WILD
www.fws.gov This Site has an Interactive STATE Map.. Select the State you want to Check.. Press and the Current Information will display..
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Information Collected and Compiled by L.M.Sweger 2016 **************************************************** &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& **************************************************** I am Starting with Guidelines for OUR Home State Pennsylvania.
Below I will include information for other U.S. States that I have check over the past several years for their Mute Swan Policies.
I have NOT researched all States. Policies KEEP Changing. If you have any DOUBT Please Call Your State DNR-Fish & WildLife Service. ************** ** PENNSYLVANIA As of 2016 Mute Swans are Allowed on Private Property. They are Classified as Captive Domestic/Exotic Waterfowl. In Pennsylvania Mute Swans are Considered Captive Pets.
Mute Swans and/or their Young may not be Released to Public Lands or WaterWays.
Arrange for All Mute Swan Cygnets to have Proper Homes.
Hunters destroy the Feral Mute Swans in Pennsylvania. In early Spring Helpless 10 month old Cygnets are chased off their Parents Ponds. Most are not Pinioned. If they are LUCKY and Rescued, they will need to be Clipped Annually by their new Owners.
Mute Swan Regulation in States around Pennsylvania. As of 2016
In most States surrounding Pennsylvania, owning Mute Swans is Prohibited or Restricted by Permit.
Delaware, Pennsylvania and Virginia consider Mute Swans as Exotic Domestic unprotected Birds.
Pennsylvania and Virginia allow Feral Mute Swans to be Shot by Hunters.
Delaware and Maryland DNR-Fish & WildLife aggressively removes Mute Swans from State Lands.
******************************************************** ** DELAWARE – Ownership Prohibited 3.5 Mute Swans (Cygnus olor) 3.5.1 Mute Swans shall be considered an Exotic, Invasive Species that is not subject to State Protection. Mute Swans may only be taken during legal Waterfowl Hunting Seasons and Shooting Hours. The method of take for Mute Swans is restricted to shotguns no larger than 10 gauge and with non-toxic ammunition no larger than size T.
3.5.2 It shall be unlawful to possess, buy, sell, barter, trade, or transfer any live Mute Swan or their eggs to or from another person unless permitted by the Director of the Division of Fish and Wildlife. 3.5.3 It shall be unlawful to release any Mute Swans into the wild.
State of Delaware – 3000 Division of Fish and Wildlife Federal Laws and Regulations Adopted https://regulations.delaware.gov/AdminCode/title7/3000/3900%20Wildlife/3903.shtml ******************************************************* ** KENTUCKY – Ownership Prohibited Kentucky State Laws Governing Private Possession of Exotic Animals.
ADMIN. REGS. 2:082 – Transportation and holding of Exotics.
Kentucky Mute Swans – You will find several sites that have lovely Photos of Kentucky Mute Swans. AND you will find several sites that have information about them being a Prohibited Exotic Specie in Kentucky. Before you continue Searching for Mute Swans PLEASE contact your Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Services. Speak to the Kentucky Waterfowl Biologist. ******************************************************* ** MARYLAND – Code of Maryland Regulations for the Possession and Trade of Captive Mute Swans 08.03.09.13 .13 Possession and Trade of Captive Mute Swans. A. Except as provided in §B of this regulation, it shall be a violation to buy, sell, barter, trade, or transfer any Mute Swan or Mute Swan Eggs to or from another person.
You may not legally move Mute Swans into Maryland. After Aug. 31, 2009, it shall be a Violation to Buy, Sell, Barter, Trade, or Transfer any Mute Swan or Mute Swan Eggs to or from another Person. ****************** A Few Mute Swan in Maryland were “GrandFathered.” Mute Swan MDNR Permits are only for Mute Swans that were on private property in Maryland before Aug. 31, 2009.
C. A person may not possess a Mute Swan unless permitted under this regulation. Possession shall include any Mute Swan held in an enclosure, pinioned to prevent its escape, or otherwise confined on a person’s property.
D. A person may apply, through August 31, 2009, for a permit to possess a Mute Swan by completing a form prescribed by the Service. After that date, the Service may not issue permits allowing the possession of Mute Swans.
2011 MUTE SWAN MANAGEMENT PLAN – MARYLAND This Site Removed ******************************************************* ** NEW JERSEY – Ownership Prohibited
May 2015 – I Spoke with the New Jersey Northern Regional Office WildLife Law Enforcement. 1(908) 735-8240 Checking to see what the New Jersey Policy is for Mute Swans.
Exotic Animals need an approved Permit in New Jersey. NJDEP F&W will not approve a Permit for Mute Swans. ******************************************************* ** NEW YORK – In 2014-2016 New York is still trying to figure out what they are doing with the Mute Swans in their State.. The DNR-Atlantic Flyway Side is Pushing to Destroy the Swans. The Public is Pushing back to Save them.
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7076.html Reporting Problems Related to Mute Swans If you have concerns regarding Mute Swans impacting Vegetation, Wildlife, or Human Activities on your Property, please contact the DEC Wildlife Office in your region.
They can provide information or assistance to alleviate the problem. Remember, Mute Swans are protected by the New York State Environmental Conservation Law. Therefore, Swans, as well as their Nests and Eggs, may not be handled or harmed without Authorization from DEC.
Mute Swan Surveys – DEC conducts a Mid-summer Mute Swan Survey to assess the population status of this non-native species and to help evaluate the need for and success of management efforts.
NYS Gov. Cuomohas (after several refusals) Signed a Bill to (for a Period of time) STOP the Slaughter of the Feral Mute Swans in New York State.
It is not a Perfect Reprieve.. but, it does give some HOPE that in some way SOMEOne will look at this terrible injustice before the Enchanting Swans are Destroyed.
This draft reads like a kinder, gentler plan with a strong emphasis on reliance of non-lethal management techniques, but in truth the multiple vague and ambiguous statements regarding when lethal management will and will not be used are dangerous. The devil is in the details and this plan potentially allows hundreds of mute swans to be captured and killed every year – the DEC can use its discretion to kill swans at will.
The DEC seems to finally understand that New Yorkers want mute swans protected not harmed, but their proposal is effectively sleight of hand. The DEC fails to grasp that swan advocates disagree with the entire premise of their plan. Despite DEC’s assertions, as a matter of science, mute swans are not an invasive species. Mute swans are a non-native resident established species, adored and admired by millions of NY citizens that pose no threat or danger to New Yorkers. John W. Grandy, PhD for GooseWatch NYC The Pegasus Foundation The Pettus Crowe Foundation
************************************************** &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& ************************************************** ** OHIO – Ohio Wildlife Rehabilitators are already banned from rehabilitating and releasing Mute Swans.
The possession of captive Mute Swans is regulated by Federal permit (50 CFR 21.25). State regulations should be developed to prevent People from releasing Mute Swans into the wild and to prohibit the sale, trade, barter, and importation of Mute Swans, or their Eggs, in Ohio.
Implement control measures to reduce Mute Swan numbers in Ohio. Policy 41 (Invasive Non-native Free-ranging Terrestrial Vertebrate Policy) already directs the Division to humanely dispatch Mute Swans, using the American Veterinary Medical Association’s 2007 Guidelines for Euthanasia, on Division-owned or managed properties.
Methods to control Mute Swan populations should include Egg addling, shooting (preferably head shots with shotguns and use of metro barrels and sub-sonic ammunition in urban/suburban areas), and live-capture/euthanasia.
OHIO SWAN MANAGEMENT PLAN There are Numerous Website with Current Information.
OHIO encourage Private Landowners who chose to have Mute Swans to keep them controlled. The ways to control them is to only purchase one Swan or two of the same sex, and keep their wings clipped or pinioned. This will help keep the Swans on the owner’s property.
Swan Owners can also addle the Eggs so Cygnets do not Hatch.
If the Cygnets are allowed to hatch out, their wings need to be clipped or pinioned so they can not leave the owner’s property.
DOW will discourage ownership of Male/Female Pairs through public education/outreach and will encourage pinioning of one wing of captive Mute Swans.
Save Our Swans On Portage Lakes (Ohio): Stop the slaughter of Mute Swans on our local Lakes
Very early one morning, on Lake Logan, Ohio, The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), covertly slaughtered the entire population of Mute Swans on that lake. ODNR policy is committed to the total extermination of the Mute Swan in Ohio. The primary reason given for the carnage was the Mute Swan interferes with the “reintroduction” of the Trumpeter Swan to Ohio. The author firmly believes ODNR is badly mistaken in considering the Trumpeter Swan an Ohio native species. Most evidence seems to show the Trumpeter Swan has never nested in Ohio since before the European Settlers arrived on the scene more than four or five-hundred years ago, if ever at all. A few fossilized bones and unreliable anecdotal evidence is all that is available to justify these killings. The author hopes this book will help to open up some dialogue and stop the extermination of the Mute Swan in Ohio and in many other states where this is also happening.
Community Upset ODNR Killed Swans at Lake Logan by Elizabeth FauglFriday, September 11th 2015
LOGAN (James Jackson) — People living by a local lake are furious tonight, saying wildlife officials are killing swans in the area. It happened at Lake Logan, in Hocking County.
Evelyn Knapp looks out of her window everyday for swans on the lake. But, the only place she gets a glimpse recently is in the form of the flower pots, made to look like the birds, by her front door. “You ain’t seen them lately or as many anymore because they are gone,” Knapp said.
Officials with Ohio’s Department of Natural Resources say they’ve recently killed swans on the lake. It’s part of their Swan Management Plan, getting rid of mute swans. They’re not from North America and compete for resources with trumpeter swans, which are threatened in Ohio.
“I think they should leave the population alone. It’s nature. It’s like the deer and everything else,” Knapp said.
Nathan Gerken owns two marinas on the lake. “I think it’s really sad day to have the swans off the lake. Many of the tourists come from all over the world in order to see the wildlife including the swans,” Gerken said.
But, wildlife officials want tourists and locals to understand, it’s also a matter of survival. Mute swans are territorial and fight the trumpeter swans for nesting.
ODNR says mute swans also impact fish, plants and vegetation that other birds feed on. ******************************************************* ** VIRGINIA – In 2012 Ownership of Mute Swans is Prohibited Migratory Game Birds (Captive-Bred and Raised). “Mute Swans (Cygnus Olor), will not be permitted for Possession, Propagation, Purchase or Sale. ” No New Permits will be Issued.
Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries 2012 Reading through the Mute Swan Management Plan of the Virginia Dept. of Game & Inland Fisheries VDGIF… Posted Nov. 2012 … I felt all the Fear again for the Helpless Mute Swans. The Virginia Regulations are the most Strict of any that I have read so far.. ******************************************************* ** WEST VIRGINIA – Ownership Prohibited
Nothing Posted on WVDNR WebSite. In 2015 I Spoke with The WaterFowl Management.
WVDNR Mike Peters, Waterfowl Biologist. Said,,,,, (Sept. 2016) He needs to sent a Memo to his various Agents. They do have some very brief information buried in their WebSite Search.
But it is very Hard to Decipher. WV does not want Mute Swans brought into their State. Mike said, he will write the Policy so it is easier to find and understand.
******************************************************* The States Listed above border Pennsylvania. ******************************************************* &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& ******************************************************* MUTE SWAN POLICIES and REGULATION for the REMAINING U.S. STATES ******************************************************* ** ALABAMA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** ALASKA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** ARIZONA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** ARKANSAS – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** CALIFORNIA – MUTE SWANs – California Laws and Restrictions. ************** Restricted Species Laws and Regulations – MANUAL 671 .pdf Importation, Transportation and Possession of Wild Animals Please Read Page (8) (c) (N) Family Anatidae 1 Cygnus olor – Mute Swan (D) ************** Read the Bottom Line of Mute Swans California CDFW Policy.pdf https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Conservation/Invasives/Species/Mute-Swan ************** Actions Taken if Found
If you observe this species in California, please report your sighting to the CDFW Invasive Species Program, by email to Invasives@wildlife.ca.gov, or by calling 1(866) 440-9530. Habitat Conservation Planning Branch 1416 Ninth Street, 12th Floor, Sacramento, CA 95814 1(916) 653-4875
******************************************************* ** COLORADO – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** CONNECTICUT – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission
IN 2012 Connecticut is the only State on the East Coast that does not manage their population of Feral Mute Swan.
******************************************************* ** DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA – Washington D.C. – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission I would expect D.C. Regulations will be the same as MDNRs. ******************************************************* ** FLORIDA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission
******************************************************* ** GEORGIA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** HAWAII – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** IDAHO – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** ILLINOIS – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission
KNOX SWAN and DOG, LLC is Located in Illinois www.canadiangoosecontrol.com North Barrington, IL 60010 Phone (847) 304-1230
Knox specializes in properties with Canada Goose problems in the Chicagoland area. They use Border Collies and Mute Swans, individually or matched up in different packages, to “chase away” Canada Geese, keeping your lawns and landscapes clean and inviting.
Knox Swan and Dog, LLC also sells Swans and will ship them Nationwide. ******************************************************* ** INDIANA – As of 2011 In Indiana, Mute Swans are currently protected. A Permit is required to possess a Live Mute Swan or to kill one.
Live Mute Swans must be pinioned (made flightless) and kept in an enclosure that prevents their escape into the wild.
On private property and public freshwater lakes, the DNR will issue free permits to lake associations and landowners to take adult Mute Swans and/or to destroy nests.
In addition, the DNR is taking measures to control Mute Swans on State-owned properties.
******************************************************* ** IOWA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** KANSAS – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** LOUISIANA Before you Acquire Mute Swans call the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Forestry in Louisiana. They are the Primary Agencies that Regulate Poultry.
– Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission September 2016 Louisiana Fish & Wildlife Guidelines are for Mute Swans to be Same-Sex Pairs.
******************************************************* ** MAINE – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** MASSACHUSETTS – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission In 2019, Private Ownership of Mute Swans is Prohibited.
From the Director of the State of Massachusetts – Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. “It is unlawful to kill or possess Mute Swans in Massachusetts.”
Q. I am seeing more and more swans in Massachusetts. Where did these beautiful birds come from?
A. The Swans you are seeing are Mute Swans, and like English Sparrows and Starlings, they are not Native to North America, but an introduced species. Originally brought in from Europe and Asia as Ornamental Waterfowl to grace the Ponds of Long Island Estates, some escaped to the Wild where they became established, spread up and down the Coast and are found in many Inland Waters. Highly aggressive and territorial, there is evidence that they are displacing Native Waterfowl and can be destructive to some aquatic habitats, destroying more vegetation than they actually eat.
Mute Swans are Protected under MA State Regulations and may not be hunted. They are not protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty as they were placed on a long list of Exotic Bird Species that removed protection under this treaty. MassWildlife can issue permits in certain situations to addle eggs and destroy Mute Swans.
IN 2015 and in March 2019, I Spoke with the Waterfowl Project Leader (508) 389-6321 If you would like to Speak with H. Heusmann call (508) 389-6300 He will Explain their Policy. Massachusetts Fish and WildLife will NO Longer issue
Permits for Mute Swan Ownership.
– Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** MICHIGAN – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission
2007 Shooting Mute Swans versus Mute Swans Shooting Blanks
******************************************************* ** MINNESOTA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** MISSISSIPPI – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** MISSOURI – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** MONTANA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** NEBRASKA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** NEVADA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** NEW HAMPSHIRE – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** NEW MEXICO – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** NORTH CAROLINA AS of JUNE 2018
Mute Swans are a familiar Old World Species seen across the State of North Carolina on Ponds, Residential Lakes, and other Bodies of Water. These are Feral, non-migratory populations of Mute Swans. Efforts are being made by NC DNR Wildlife Officials to reduce this population.
Private Property Ownership of Mute Swans is Allowed without any Permit. But, these Privately Owned Mute Swan are to be Pinioned. And, any Cygnets need to be Pinioned.. NO RELEASE to the Wild. These Young Swans can be Rehomed or Sold to Private Properties.
A Health Certificate is Requested by the NC Dept. of Agriculture.. if a Mute Swan or Cygnet is brought into North Carolina from another State. ******************************************************* ** NORTH DAKOTA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** OKLAHOMA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** OREGON – Importation and New Ownership Prohibited
2010 In Oregon, Mute Swans are classified as a “Controlled Species by Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 635-056-0070 (2)(a): “The possession, transport, sale, purchase, exchange and offer to sell, purchase or exchange is allowed provided that all males are neutered and all individuals are surgically pinioned.
(To “GrandFather” existing Mute Swans.) If these rules are followed, breeding and thus the production of Cygnets should never occur.
From refueform.com Any White Swan with an Orange Culmen in the wild here in Oregon is fair game according to F&W. They are trying to eliminate all the Mute Swans that have gotten loose. We were told they are a huge threat to native waterfowl and that they need to be controlled.
Pest Risk Assessment for Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) in Oregon 2010 https://www.oregon.gov/oisc/docs/pdf/ra_muteswan.pdf ******************************************************* ** RHODE ISLAND – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission
April 2019, I Spoke with a Rhode Island Resident. They had a Nesting Pair of Mute Swans on their Private Property. Rhode Island Department Of Environmental Management wanted to Destroy these Wild Mute Swans. The Easiest time to Locate Swans is when they are Nesting.
The Property Owners Protested. They Called their Local Police Department. As Long as the Swans were on Private Property above the Mean Average High Water Mark, the RI DEM would need Permission from the Property Owners to Removed these Swans.
Sadly, this will only Delay the Destruction of these Swans. Soon after their Cygnets Hatch, the Swans will take their Tiny Cygnets to the Waterway.Then the Entire Swan Family will be Vulnerable to the DEM Agents who will be Waiting for them. ******************************************************* ** SOUTH CAROLINA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** SOUTH DAKOTA – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** TENNESSEE – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** TEXAS – There are so few Mute Swans in Texas. 2016 The Texas Game Commission currently has no Regulation/Restrictions. ******************************************************* ** UTAH – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** VERMONT – Prohibits the Importation and Sale of Mute Swans. Requires that all Captive Mute Swans be pinioned, sterilized (THIS IS NOT POSSIBLE) and marked for identification.
In 1997, Vermont established a policy for total removal of all Mute Swans from the State.
2007 Shooting Mute Swans versus Mute Swans Shooting Blanks https://www.bootstrap-analysis.com/2007/01/shooting_mute_s.html ******************************************************* ** WASHINGTON State – Ownership Prohibited ******************************************************* ** WISCONSIN – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* ** WYOMING – Contact State GAME & FISH-WILDLIFE Commission ******************************************************* The Atlantic Flyway Council and the Hunting Lobby… are the main driving forces against the Mute Swans.
In Maryland, the MDNR removed close to 5,000 Feral Mute Swans. All those helpless Swans… destroyed.
There is a Program called “The Silent Taking.” Remove Mute Swans alive and destroy the Swans out of sight of the Public.
There are Accounts all over the Country of State DNR-Game Commissions removing from State owned WaterWays Mute Swans that were Loved and Enjoyed by the Public. Without Warning.
OHIO DNR Shoot the Mute Swans on this Lake. NO Warning to the Folks that live there.
Very early one morning, on Lake Logan, Ohio, The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), covertly slaughtered the entire population of Mute Swans on that lake. ODNR policy is committed to the total extermination of the Mute Swan in Ohio. The primary reason given for the carnage was the Mute Swan interferes with the “reintroduction” of the Trumpeter Swan to Ohio. The author firmly believes ODNR is badly mistaken in considering the Trumpeter Swan an Ohio native species. Most evidence seems to show the Trumpeter Swan has never nested in Ohio since before the European Settlers arrived on the scene more than four or five-hundred years ago, if ever at all. A few fossilized bones and unreliable anecdotal evidence is all that is available to justify these killings. The author hopes this book will help to open up some dialogue and stop the extermination of the Mute Swan in Ohio and in many other states where this is also happening.
Community Upset ODNR Killed Swans at Lake Logan by Elizabeth FauglFriday, September 11th 2015
LOGAN (James Jackson) — People living by a local lake are furious tonight, saying wildlife officials are killing swans in the area. It happened at Lake Logan, in Hocking County.
Evelyn Knapp looks out of her window everyday for swans on the lake. But, the only place she gets a glimpse recently is in the form of the flower pots, made to look like the birds, by her front door. “You ain’t seen them lately or as many anymore because they are gone,” Knapp said.
Officials with Ohio’s Department of Natural Resources say they’ve recently killed swans on the lake. It’s part of their Swan Management Plan, getting rid of mute swans. They’re not from North America and compete for resources with trumpeter swans, which are threatened in Ohio.
“I think they should leave the population alone. It’s nature. It’s like the deer and everything else,” Knapp said.
Nathan Gerken owns two marinas on the lake. “I think it’s really sad day to have the swans off the lake. Many of the tourists come from all over the world in order to see the wildlife including the swans,” Gerken said.
But, wildlife officials want tourists and locals to understand, it’s also a matter of survival. Mute swans are territorial and fight the trumpeter swans for nesting.
ODNR says mute swans also impact fish, plants and vegetation that other birds feed on.
There is a GREAT Deal of Information on the Internet..
In PA, any Mute Swan/Cygnet found on Public Land or Public Waterways.. can be destroyed by anyone – anytime.
Several Swans we Loved were Shot by Hunters from Maryland, who drove up to Harrisburg to shoot our Feral PA Mute Swans.
We do our best to Find Homes for all Mute Swans that are Rescued. I would LOVE to share Mute Swans with everyone – everywhere. Sadly, this is not Possible.
******************************************************* If your State will not allow you to Legally have Mute Swans, and you still want to have Swans, consider Trumpeter Swans.
If you do consider the Trumpeter Swans… They are Native and Welcome in most States. They will help you with the Canadian Geese. Be sure yours are Pinioned and that they have some Open Water areas in the Winter.
OR the Delightful Black Australian Swans. They are Fun.
********************************************************** ************* ATLANTIC FLYWAY COUNCIL **************
The Atlantic Flyway Council is composed of 17 East Coast US States **the States of Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia; **the Canadian territory of Nunavut and provinces of Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, and Quebec; **plus the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands.
The Atlantic Flyway Council contains representatives (usually administrators) from all the agencies that have management responsibility for migratory bird resources in the Flyway.
The Council determines actions required for sound migratory game bird management and makes recommendations to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
NORTH AMERICAN MIGRATION FLYWAYS ******************************************************* &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& *******************************************************
This Information is a Work in Progress….. As I learn more I will add to this information.. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Compiled by (C) L.M.Sweger March 2016 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
If you are Wondering WHY?? are the Mute Swans being Destroyed all over the United States. You will not need to Look Very Hard to find a Tremendous Amount of Information on the Internet.
It is HARD to Believe this is Really Happening. Detail History of How Mute Swans Lost their Federal Protection
SUMMARY OF THE MUTE SWAN’s Removal from the MBTA 7/15/05 Source Arlene Steinberg Information Attributed to Kathryn Burton CAMPAIGN to STOP Swan KILLING !!!! FROM a WebSite: SaveOurSwans.com Which is no Longer Active. Occasional I do Find this OnLine.
Do a Search for “Save Our Swans” or “Stop Killing Swans” You will Find a Great Deal of Information.. About the Tragic Plight of the Mute Swans in the United States.
THERE are Active Attempts being made to STOP the Killing of the Mute Swans. It is NOT Happening Fast Enough.
DETAILED BACKGROUND (from 2005) Save Our Swans A Little History Since 1916, the U.S. has signed four international treaties – with Canada, Mexico, Russia, and Japan – to protect migratory birds which move between countries. Congress enacted the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) in 1918, a major aspect of our conservation law, to implement and enforce the provisions of these international treaties. This bill gave federal protection to migratory birds that passed through the United States.
Nowhere in the four migratory bird treaties has there been any distinction between “native” and “non-native” species. To the contrary, these treaties are specifically intended to protect birds which move between countries.
The new “reform” legislation undermines the very purpose of the migratory bird treaties – to protect birds not just in “native” countries, but across the full range of their ancient migratory routes.
The MBTA, which has worked well for nine decades, already includes provisions for dealing with birds which may harm agriculture or the environment. But because federal and state wildlife officials couldn’t prove mute swans were causing any damage, pro-hunting politicians found a clever way around the MBTA: they rewrote the law.
Late in (Dec 2004), the Migratory Bird Treaty Reform Act was quietly slipped into a 2005 omnibus spending package, buried in 3,600 pages of language. No one saw it. It received no public hearing, no public discussion, and no public debate. It was backroom political dealing at its worst, and a congressional committee passed it. The president (Geo Bush) signed it into law in December 2004. This secret rider, the Migratory Bird Treaty Reform Act, introduced by U.S. Representative Wayne Gilchrest (R-MD) and U.S. Senator George Voinovich (R-OH) removes federal protections for mute swans and dozens of other bird species. The criteria for removing protections will now be based on a bird’s ancestry, and any species declared to be “non-native” to the United States would no longer be safe.
From Beauty to Beast The mute swan is a large, all-white bird, recognized by its orange bill with black at its base, common in Europe and Asia without any problems for thousands of years. The birds grace many lakes and bays in the United States, primarily on the east coast. Nobody knows exactly when or how the swans first came to America; however, S. Dillon Ripley, who headed the Smithsonian and the Birding Department at Yale University, has stated they have been here since Colonial days. Some people are working on proving that they may have migrated with other swan species from the Russia/Siberia coast across the Bering Straights, just as man did, and at the same time. There are 9500 year-old fossils of mute swans found in Oregon and older ones found in Arizona and Idaho. If this can be proved, it might help win back the birds’ federal protection.
Mute swans can still be found in Russia/Siberia/Kamchatka, a short swan flight from Alaska. The beautiful birds stand squarely in the center of controversy, as state and federal wildlife officials and some environmental organizations have been eager to blame mute swans for being aggressive, pushing out other waterfowl, and even destroying submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) in sensitive areas such as the Chesapeake Bay.
They never mention that the SAVs had a worldwide die off in the 1930s, including our east coast, and the enormous pollution that flows into the very shallow Chesapeake Bay every single day from chicken and pig farms, paper companies and unstoppable development on the shorelines has played a major role in the reason why those grasses are only now returning. In the northeast, the grasses had returned by the 1970s everywhere but in Maryland, even though at the time the largest concentration of mute swans was in Long Island Sound, which had already recovered. (Maryland has a particular hunting agenda for the swans and is therefore the most vociferous about their destruction.)
The evidence against the swans is flimsy and completely unscientific. Swans can be aggressive during nesting season, but so are many other animals and birds – this is natural behavior. Wildlife agencies’ own studies indicate that the small population of mute swans – only 3,600 in Maryland and 14,000 in the entire Atlantic Flyway (17 Atlantic coastal states the birds fly through in their migration) of the United States and Canada – is not causing any real damage.
According to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the two leading threats to the bay’s crucial underwater grasses are agricultural waste run-off from industrial chicken processing plants (nitrogen) and sewage treatment plants. Mute swans probably wouldn’t make a list of the top fifty threats. But the big industrial chicken producers pull out all the lobbying stops to defeat any meaningful attempts to control agricultural waste. And no one wants to appropriate the money to upgrade sewage treatment capacity.
It’s much easier for public officials to scapegoat the swans than to grapple with complex environmental problems. Even in Maryland, where the controversy has been most heated, the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has repeatedly explained that mute swans have only a “negligible” impact on the Chesapeake Bay, that “there is no evidence to suggest that mute swans are causing any impact to agriculture in Maryland,” that the birds “are not the primary cause of the decline of SAV in the Chesapeake Bay,” and that, in fact, the “decline of SAV has been attributed primarily to elevated levels of nutrients and suspended sediments.” Point in fact: the Chesapeake Bay has never met the minimum requirements for the Clean Water Act.
In an ironic footnote to the mute swan saga, the federal and state partnership Chesapeake Bay Program recently released a report revealing the startling news that the upper bay’s underwater grasses have more than doubled from 2003 to 2004. Which if anything, proves that the swans have a beneficial impact and not a negative one. However, they are certainly not promoting this information, preferring to vilify the swans to accomplish their own ends.
Origin of the Species? The “Reform Act” targets not only mute swans, but more than 100 bird species-including certain species of storks, pelicans, cardinals, cranes, and orioles-which, according to the new law are not “entirely the result of natural biological or ecological conditions.”
But who decides which species meet that arbitrary definition? That responsibility rests solely with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
And how do those USFWS decision-makers deal with murky circumstances such as, say, a species that migrates from its native habitat because of environmental changes? Are those birds now considered non-native in their new habitat?
They have already admitted that the mute swans migrate through the Great Lakes area into the United States. Isn’t that the exact definition of what the new bill stated? Although the swans were the intended immediate target of the “Reform” act, other birds will suffer as well. Some of the species targeted to lose their protection are even considered imperiled under other international agreements such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Species such as the Nicobar pigeon and the Luzon bleeding-heart need global cooperation to survive. Bird species protected in other range states under their domestic laws could be killed when traveling through the United States, undermining diligent efforts abroad to protect these same species at other times of the year.
Sadly, so-called environmental organizations that should have been on the swan’ side helped the hunters undermine it. Environmental groups such as the American Bird Conservancy, National Audubon Society, Sierra Club, The Nature Conservancy, and World Wildlife Fund should have rallied to the birds’ defense, but they are little more today than thinly-veiled hunting groups themselves (The Audubon Society is having a huge internal battle over just this fundamental philosophical difference.). So they joined the NRA, Safari Club International, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance, and Archery Trade Association in the effort to allow the wholesale slaughter of mute swans.
This is disastrous environmental mismanagement, an outrageous political travesty, and abominable and needless potential destruction of one of the most beautiful animals on this planet, solely to fit the goals of a diminishing but well-financed hunting lobby and the federal and state agencies that rely on the sales of hunting licenses to exist.
Click to Enlarge Images
***************************************************** &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& ***************************************************** These Videos Grab my Emotions.. Hard to Watch knowing what is happening to the Mute Swans. I LOVE Spending Time with Mute Swans. One Day this may be all we have – The YouTube Videos ****************** Adele Swans Rolling In The Deep https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKldBy2Pd4M ********************************************* Swan Swimming perfect reflection in tranquil serene Peaceful Pond Toronto Canada https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1NkmWENsB4 ********************************************** The Life of Swans by Paul Keene https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmXxIA_WoI4 ********************************************** The Regal Swan Fountation – Donations https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9I39ZCIUjE **********************************************
Information Organized in 2015 by Linda M.Sweger – PA SwanLover Linda UpDated May 2021
******************************************************** I LOVE Male Mute Cobs.. and their Pens. The Gentle Graceful Swans of Summer can become Holy Terrors from January through Early Summer. Depends on Several Factors I will try to Share below.
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A Male Swan’s Reproductive Hormones start to Increase Slowly from Late November through December.
During this Stage.. IF a Female is Present.. The Swans will be Courting more. A Lovely Time.
*** Click Images to Enlarge ***
The Most Visual Sign is the Male’s Swollen Knob.
This Wonderful Male Mute’s Knob was SO Swollen He had to Turn His Head to See Forward. This was our “Handsome Fellow.”
The Cob Often becomes MORE Protective of THEIR Pond !
The Term for People are Afraid of Aggressive Swans – Anatidaephobia.
Male Swans are “Programmed” to Chase or Attack other Swan Entering their Territory.. Male Mute Swans Chase White Objects.
I have No Experience with Trumpeter or Tundra Swans During their Hormonal Season.
One Spring Day I was Wearing a White Tee Shirt under a Dark Plaid Shirt. It was a Warm Day… I took off the Dark Plaid Shirt……
This was the Result !! Happened Twice that Day.
When I Put my Dark Plaid Shirt back ON…He Stopped ! From that Day on, I wear Dark or Earth Tone Colors During Hormone Season.
MARCH This time of Year, most Male Swans are very TESTY to down right AGGRESSIVE… Chasing Anyone and Anything that Enters into their Pond Territory..
As Ground Nesting Birds the Swan Cob has to be Fierce to Protect his Female, the Nest and their Eggs.
Males do a lot of “Busking.” Threatening..
******
BE CAREFUL WATCH THE COB !!!
I Tossed Him Tasty Romaine Lettuce..
I Moved Back Behind the Cob’s “Line.” There is a “Line” he will Defend. His RED Line.
Mute Cob Guarding his Females while they Munch. He WATCH Me VERY Closely.. I had to Behave.
MALES SWANS FLOG..!!!!! IT HURTS !!
WARN Any Visitors to Your Pond or Lake to KEEP a Safe Distance.
It is Good to Know Where there is a Barrier to Get Behind.
******
Our Cob WHACKED my Cart SO HARD He Bent it.
Concerned Our Swan would Hurt Himself.. I Make Soft Repelling Tools.
This is JUST to Keep a Safe Distance.. NEVER Hit Your Swans.
These are Inexpensive Fan Rakes, Layers of Bubble Wrap and Busy Earth Tone Material I can Take OFF to Launder. ************
Another Idea to Keep A Barrier is a Vinyl Trash Can.
This Day I had to Retreat to the Barn and Close the Door.
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This Last Thought is a Quote from a Dear Swan Friend.
This Information is a Work in Progress….. As I learn more I will add to this information.. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Compiled by (C) L.M.Sweger January 2017 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Bringing a Whole Head of Iceberg Lettuce to your Pond and Tossing it into the Water provides your Swans with a Chance to Share some FUN. They will take turns Picking at the Head pf :ettuce. Often with Vocal “Thank You” Snorts and Head Nodding.
Click Images to Enlarge
Lettuce Play – “Let-Us-Play”
Swans LOVE Lettuce.
Swans will Play with a Whole Head of Iceberg Lettuce Tossed into their Water.
They also will Bite at the Bunch Butt of Romaine Lettuce Until it Completely Gone.
They seem to Enjoy the Taste and Texture of the Center Core.
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The “Let-Us-Play” Game is Fun Often with Happy Snorting.Swans will take turns “Bobbing” for Chunks of Lettuce.
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The “Dam” Shares Lettuce with her Tiny Cygnet.
Young Cygnets Bite the Tender Lettuce leaves.
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A Swan Family Plays the Game “Let-Us-Play.”
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All Species of Swans will Play the Game.
Cygnets Teaches a New Cygnet at a Waterfowl Rescue.
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************ Play on a HOT Day – Play on a Fall Day.
A Head of Lettuce in a Pond Full of Duckweed.
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****** Lettuce Play – “Let-Us-Play” Fun for All.
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More Fun then a Basket of Lettuce.
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A Sprinkler and Lettuce in a Bowl on a Hot Summer Day.
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************************************************** This Information is a Work in Progress….. As I learn more I will add to this information.. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Compiled by (C) L.M.Sweger UpDate June 2021 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
Swans Look Forward to Favorite Treats Some Visits are Weeks Apart.. They Remember.
Some Swans will Hand Feed.. Some will Stay Just Out of Reach. ***************************************************************
Swans Usually Trust the People who Regularly Feed them. There are Exceptions.. All Swans are Different. It is January – “George” is Hormonal ! He is Trusting Rob to Hand-Feed “Hannah.”
It is Winter – “Meadow” is Becoming Hormonal. So Far So GOOD ! Next Visit I was Chased.. I Had a White Shirt On.. BIG Mistake ! ! We were Still Learning.. NO White in the Spring ! *********************************************************************
TRUST is Helpful when Swans are Nesting. There are Times when you will want to Check their Eggs.
She Knows Us Very Well… But, a Nesting Female will Still be a Bit Nervous. Move Slowly – Speak to her Calmly.. Daily Visits to their Nest – Trust – Not All Swans will Allow this. *******************************************************************
Swans have Good Memories. Who they Can Trust.
TRUST ! These Cobs have Left the Safety of their Pond to Visit with Us. Trust. This is TRUST.. SO Cute ! ! Sleeping at my Feet.
Swans Usually Sleep VERY Lightly..
Sitting Close-by and Napping is Trust ! *****************************************************************
A Man and His Swan Enjoying a Walk-Swimming Together.
The Cob below is a Different Swan. Some Swans will Walk with You.
This Young Female would Follow-Walk with Rob..
This Female Liked to Walk with Her Friend. ******
****** This became Part of their Routine when we would Visit. ****** “Boris” would Walk with Me. I Miss him. “George” was Different – He Would “Stalk” me.. There was NO Trust between Us… Just Respecting his “Space.” We were Always on Guard with “George.” Keeping a Barrier between Us. I Miss “George.” – He was ALL Mute Cob. ***************************************************
THINGS THAT MESS-UP TRUST.
Catching Your Swan. They DO NOT Like to be Caught.
They will Likely Stay Away from You for a While.
We Caught this Cob to Rinse his One Eye.. He Stayed on the Far Side of his Pond for Several Visits. ***************************************************************
We Needed this Hormonal Sire in a Safe Place for a Bit. He was NOT Happy. Always Place him in the Shade.
Having Control of the Sire makes it Much Safer to Pinion the Cygnets. Once you Have their Dam you have the Cygnets. Once the Cygnets are All Safely Back on their Pond.. Release their Sire. This Swan Family Avoided Us the Rest of our Summer Visits. For the Rest of the Summer we did NOT have Their Trust.. We would Only Visit every so Often – Not Regularly. ***************************************************************
We had to Rescue “Handsome” and “Harmony’s” Injured Cygnet. For Weeks the Parent Swans Avoided Us.
Every Time We Went to See “Meadow’s” Veterinarian, We Lost Some Trust with this Cygnet.
All his Vet Visits, Treatments, Several Surgeries, Recovery took 9 Months. Daily Wound Soaking – Dressing Changes.. All Necessary.Then in a Few Days We Were OK Again. Regained Trust. Best Friends Again. His Right Foot is Wrapped.
“Meadow” would Routinely Walk with us. Daily Wound Care became Routine. Preening is Acceptance. With Calm NON-Threatening Visits his Trust Returned. ************************************************************************
Being Transported to a NEW Home is Scary.
Once we had All the Young Females Moved – They are Happy. ************************************************************
The Young Swan Below was Not Happy when We Moved him to his New Home. It was Weeks before “Meadow” would Come Near Us. We Returned after a Few Days to a Very Unhappy Cygnet.
We Waited as Long as Possible that Day.. He Stayed Away from Us. We Went to Visit Several Days Later. We were NOT Forgiven.“Meadow” was Pretending Rob was Not There. IF a Cygnet is Capable of Sulking – “Meadow” was Sulking. “Meadow” was Very Lonely – He Felt Abandoned. We were his Family for Months. Now he is Alone. FINALLY a “Hello” Nod.. Friends Again ??
Once we Brought the Two Females to be his Companions, “Meadow” was Happy to Visit with Us. We were Finally Forgiven and Trusted Again. ********************************************************************
When we had to Move “Hannah” to her New Home. She did not Understand for Weeks. Rob Sat Low on the Pond Edge and Talked to “Hannah” Another Visit Sitting Low – Offering a Favorite Treat. Yes, she is Accepting a Treat… ********************************************************************
It Feels Good to be Trusted.
The Routine Treats HELP with Trust – the “White Bag Effect.” Sharing Time and Favorite Food Treats Helps with Trust. The Swans we would Routinely Visit KNOW the White Bags have Goodies. An Afternoon Visit on the Grassy Lawn.. The Dam is Watching Me. (Cute) Now it is Time to Get them Comfortable with the Catch Fencing. Regular Non-Threatening Visits Made Working with this Swan Family Easier. *****************************************************************************
OH NO ! ! Our Cob had Walked to a Neighbor’s Pond.. We Needed to Move this Male back to his Home Pond.
“Meadow” Liked the Large Nearby Pond.. We Needed to “Bait” Him.
Having his Trust was Important. IT WORKED.. Took 10 Days.
We Caught this WayWard Cob and Returned him to his Home Pond.
After Several Visits.. Just Sitting Quietly by their Pond.. The Cob was Back to Visiting with Us.
*****************************************
This Young Swan lost her Sister Companion. She went into “Survival Mode” and Stayed Across the Pond. Last Time We Visited She was Happy and Playing Near my Feet.
A Predator Killed her Sister.. She was Scared..
******************************************************************* This Young Female was Moved Five Times in One Month. She Avoided Us for Days.. Finally She came to Eat.
We Spent Time with Her Every Afternoon. Once She Trusted Me Again, She Climb Out of the Pond and Sat Down Beside Me.
This was a Very Special Moment.. Acceptance and Trust.
Trust is Mutual. It Takes Time.
We Visited these Brood Swans Frequently for Several Years. They Trusted Me to a Point. One Afternoon, I Got TOO Close.. Moving a Twig. After that “Handsome” Kept me at a Distance. I was NOT as Welcome by the Nest Site. I Lost his Trust. Once their Cygnets were Out on the River.. “Handsome” Brought them for us to See. Trust had Returned. There were Only a Few Visits with their Cygnets. In a Few Days they will be Gone. So Sad.
A Same Sex Male Pair -Three Years Old. “Smile Boys.”We Always Enjoyed our Visits with these Cobs. *****************************************************************************
This Information is a Work in Progress….. As I learn more I will add to this information.. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Compiled by (C) L.M.Sweger UpDate JUNE 2021 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&
