Swanlets › What to do if you find an injured swan
What to do if you find an injured swan
A swan in trouble needs the right help quickly, but a swan is large and strong, so do not try to handle it unless you have been told how. This is general information, not veterinary advice.
Signs a swan needs help
- Fishing line, a hook or tackle hanging from its bill, neck or legs.
- A drooping wing, or a bird that cannot lift itself or stand.
- Bleeding, an obvious wound or a swollen limb.
- A bird that is very thin, lethargic or unresponsive, or twisting its neck unnaturally.
- A swan on a road, or stranded away from water, particularly a cygnet on its own for hours.
A swan sitting on the bank or sleeping on one leg is usually fine. Swans often stand with one leg tucked up, hiss when you come near and drop their heads to rest.
What to do first
- Stay calm and watch from a distance. Make a note of the exact place, using a landmark, a what3words address or a map pin.
- Keep dogs and people back.
- Take photos or a short video from a safe distance: they help the rescuer.
- Call for help. In England and Wales, the RSPCA's 24-hour emergency line is 0300 1234 999; in Scotland the Scottish SPCA and in Northern Ireland the USPCA take calls (check their websites for the numbers). Specialist swan rescue charities such as the Swan Sanctuary in Surrey also advise.
- Wait nearby if it is safe, to direct the rescuer.
Should I catch it myself?
Usually no. A swan's wings can bruise or break a person's arm, and a frightened bird may struggle and injure itself. It may also have an infectious disease. Trained rescuers use nets, towels and a hold that keeps the wings folded. If you are told to help, wear gloves, keep your face away, and do not handle the bird bare-handed. A swan on a road is a danger to drivers: call the police on 999 if there is an immediate risk to people.
Common causes
Fishing tackle is a major cause of injury to swans, including hooks, line and lead weights. Lead fishing weights have been a particular concern because swans can swallow them; check current rules on gov.uk. Other causes include collisions with overhead power lines, attacks by dogs, litter such as cans and plastic rings, and disease. Please take any fishing tackle and litter away from the water.
Bird flu
If you find a dead swan, or several dead wild birds, do not touch them. Avian influenza has killed many swans in recent winters. Report them to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77 (check gov.uk for the current guidance). Do not take a sick bird home, and keep children and pets away.
Cygnets on their own
If a cygnet is alone, wait and watch for an hour or two; the parents are usually nearby. If you see one with an injury, or a family trapped in a drain, concrete channel or building site, contact a rescue organisation. See our cygnet guide for what normal behaviour looks like.
After the rescue
Many swans that are treated can be released on the same stretch of water, and rescuers will often tell you what happened if you leave your details. If you want to help in future, you can support a rescue charity or join a river clean-up. The legal side is covered on the swan law page, and good practice for visitors is on the feeding page.
Frequently asked questions
Who do I call about an injured swan?
In England and Wales call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999. In Scotland and Northern Ireland contact the Scottish SPCA or USPCA. Specialist swan rescue charities also give advice.
Can I pick up an injured swan?
Not unless trained or told how. Swans are strong and can hurt you and themselves, and may carry disease.
What if I find a dead swan?
Do not touch it. Report it to the Defra helpline in case of bird flu.