Young swan wrapped in fishing line rescued from canal in Worksop
Wildlife rescue workers were called out twice to injured swans on the Chesterfield Canal in Worksop over the weekend.
The team from Warsop Wildlife Rescue made the emergency trips after receiving reports of two cygnets that were showing signs of distress.
One of the cygnets had fishing line wrapped around its lower beak and extending down its throat, and was in need of an urgent veterinary assessment and treatment.
The second cygnet was reported as being found ‘with a limp to its right leg, severely lethargic and noticeably malnourished’. Wildlife volunteers were told it had been away from its parents for several days before being reported.
They praised members of the public who reported the cygnets via social media, saying: “A huge thank you goes to the wonderful ladies and gentleman who spotted these youngsters in difficulty, reported the concerns, and safely contained the second cygnet until our team arrived.
"Without members of the public taking action, many animals simply wouldn't get the help they desperately need.”
They added: “Both cygnets are now receiving the care they need, and with the support of our dedicated veterinary team, we will do everything possible to give them the best chance of recovery and a return to open waters where they belong”.
These incidents follow similar cases on the canal in Retford, where local people have set up their own group to watch over the swans and report any issues accordingly.
There were cases reported there of school age youngsters trying to bait and ‘hook’ the swans while filming their actions on mobile phones.
Fishing tackle continues to be one of the biggest dangers facing waterways wildlife.
People who go out fishing are asked to dispose of their unwanted line responsibly, and to encourage others to do the same, as it poses considerable risk to wildlife in and around the canal area.
The veterinary care necessary for the cygnets amounts to considerable cost to Warsop Wildlife Rescue.
Anyone who would like to support the treatment and ongoing care of the cygnets can donate to Warsop Wildlife Rescue, to help them continue responding when birds and animals need their help.
Bank details for Warsop Wildlife Rescue are account number 83817085 sort code 51-70-06.