A dramatic swan rescue mission unfolded on the sands of Weston beach at the weekend.
Secret World Wildlife Rescue’s carers from the Burnham-On-Sea area responded to numerous calls of concern, and joined forces with local beach rangers and Avon Fire & Rescue Service’s hovercraft crew to assist several distressed swans.
“The rescue mission began when the team arrived and met Joe, the head of the Weston Seafront Beach Rangers, who alerted them to a swan trapped in the mud behind the pier,” says the charity’s George Bethell.
“Wearing full PPE due to the risk of avian flu, the team first focused on a female swan sitting on the sand. With careful precision, they used large sheets to gently guide her towards a secure location.”
“Just as she attempted to escape, the team successfully secured her using a swan wrap and an IKEA bag – an unconventional but effective method known to be a safe way to transport swans.”
“With the first swan safely placed in the Secret World Wildlife Rescue ambulance, attention turned to a second swan, which was stranded far out in the mud, beyond reach for a safe on-foot rescue.”
“Fortunately, Avon Fire & Rescue Service at Weston Station stepped in with their hovercraft to assist. However, as the rescue team approached, the swan managed to propel itself across the mud before finally taking flight, disappearing towards Birnbeck Pier.”
“Reports of a third swan in distress near the pier turned out to be a false alarm—just a plastic bag mistaken for a bird.”
“The rescued swan was swiftly taken to Green Pastures Vets for a full clinical examination. Sadly, she was found to be suffering from conjunctivitis, severe emaciation, eye irritation from sand and seawater, and a swollen shoulder with a potential fused break.”
“Given the extent of her condition, the difficult decision was made to put her to sleep to prevent further suffering.”
“Secret World Wildlife Rescue extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in this mission including Joe and the Weston Seafront Beach Rangers, for their dedication and quick response; Avon Fire & Rescue at Weston Station; Our dedicated volunteer, who rushed to provide additional swan wraps at a moment’s notice; and Green Pastures Vets, for their compassion and expert care.”
“Although the outcome was not what we had hoped, the swift teamwork and dedication of all involved ensured that this swan did not suffer any longer.”
“The overwhelming concern and support from the local community highlights the shared commitment to protecting British wildlife.”
