A new community group has been launched to help protect and monitor the swan population in Retford following a series of injuries affecting local birds. Retford Swan Watch, which can be found on Facebook, aims to bring together residents who care about the town’s swans and want to help safeguard their welfare. The group provides advice, a way to report injuries or concerns, and support in contacting wildlife rescuers when urgent assistance is needed.
The initiative has been established after several avoidable incidents involving local swans and cygnets. Within the space of just eight days, four cygnets suffered intentional injuries. One of the most serious cases involved a cygnet with a broken wing caused by discarded fishing line. The bird was taken to Yorkshire Swan and Wildlife Hospital for treatment. Although the wing has healed, it is unable to be returned to its family.
Group founder Kathy Denman is hoping to recruit volunteers who can regularly walk sections of the towpath between the marina near Town Lock and Grove Mill Snooker Club, helping to monitor the swans and report any concerns. Residents who notice an injured swan or have concerns about the welfare of local swans can call or message Kathy on 07944 571187. Injured or unwell cygnets may become separated from their families, swim erratically, repeatedly preen in an attempt to remove fishing line or hooks, or display unusual behaviour. However, signs of injury are not always obvious.
Fishing line remains one of the greatest dangers to swans and other wildlife. Members of the public are encouraged to dispose of fishing equipment responsibly and remain vigilant for abandoned line, which can be difficult to spot but may glint in sunlight.
Anyone wishing to support the initiative can join the Retford Swan Watch Facebook group. Yorkshire Swan and Wildlife Hospital can also be contacted directly on 01757 544554. Any incidents involving deliberate harm to wildlife should be reported to the police and referred to the Wildlife Crime Officer.
Donations to Yorkshire Swan and Wildlife Hospital are also welcomed to support its ongoing rescue and rehabilitation work. Further information is available at http://www.ysrh.org.uk.