Dear editor,
Over the Christmas period, I have had the unhappy duty of reporting three dead cygnets to Defra for suspected bird flu.
We all do it, including me, but at present I would ask those feeding the swans, ducks and geese to put food in the water, and not to feed directly by hand.
- If you find a sick or dead bird, you should not touch it, but report it to Defra online at gov.uk/guidance/report-dead-wild-birds
- It’s location can be found either using the what3words app, or by visiting the what3words online map at what3words.com/pretty.needed.chill
I am also aware of a swan near the boating lake with a severe limp. I have examined this bird. He has no visible cuts or breaks, etc, but does have a swollen knee. I’m confident that in time this suspected sprain will heal without intervention.
He’s able to leave the water, swim, walk, eat, etc., and so I’ll continue to watch over him.
Swans often get sprain injuries to knees/ankles, etc., if chased by uncontrolled dogs. If his condition worsens, I will, of course, take further action.
Thank you for your care and understanding.
Joanne Gullon
On behalf of the Bedfordian Swans
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