“[He] was really stuck when I arrived …”
The other day, a pair of homeowners in Australia noticed a beautiful young black swan flying into their back garden. Surprised, the homeowners went outside for a closer look. As they approached the bird, they realized he’d mistakenly fallen in between their raised garden bed and a boundary fence. Now, the swan’s ample feathers were stuck in the crevice.
Unsure what to do, the couple called WIRES Wildlife Rescue. Soon, Inga, an experienced rescuer, was on her way. Arriving in the garden, Inga assessed the situation and quickly got to work.
“I could see straight away I would have to lift it out,” Inga explained. “I gently held its neck with one hand so it couldn’t peck me and put my other hand underneath.”
Inga swiftly moved the bird out of the crevice and into a transport carrier. She covered the carrier with a blanket to keep the bird calm. Then, she loaded him into the car and drove to a nearby lake for release.
Finally free, the black swan spread his wings in celebration, bounding back into the water.
Inga was thrilled.
“It’s always a wonderful feeling to release any animal back into its natural habitat,” Inga said with a smile. “This young swan gave me a final hiss and then plunged into the water, paddling straight out onto the lake. It raised its head and made the musical honking call unique to black swans — that was a truly rewarding moment!”