A young swan has had a lucky escape after being hit by a train – and is now recovering at Secret World Wildlife Rescue near Burnham-On-Sea.
The bird has been rescued from the railway line between Taunton and Bridgwater after the wildlife charity received a call about its plight.
Secret World in East Huntspill’s volunteer response driver Graeme Thompson headed to the scene and found the bird sitting beside the tracks on the grass verge.
Graeme had to wait for a rail engineer to come from Bristol before he could get to the swan, and move it to a nearby garden.
Working with the homeowner, Graeme rescued the swan and it was bought into Secret World’s animal hospital where it was found to have a bruise on its carpel joint. After treatment it’s recovering well and will be released as soon as he’s ready.
Laura Benfield, Head of Animal Care Services, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Thanks to Graeme this story has a happy ending, and Thomas the swan is doing well.”
“He is resting at our centre and as soon as he is strong enough he will be released.”
“Graeme has had training in rescuing swans and so is well prepared. If any member of the public sees a swan in distress we urge them not to approach it, but to call us for advice.”
In 2017 Secret World treated 72 swans, suffering from various injuries. These included Solo the cygnet who lost his entire family in an accident, and Serendipity who was found alone in the middle of a road.
Secret World provides a 365-days-a-year-service to rescue sick, injured or orphaned wildlife.
Members of the public who would like advice on how to look after wild animals or would like to report injured wildlife should call 01278 783 250.
