Injured Swan Recovering in Anchorage

Missed its migration south

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By Lauren Maxwell
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Story Created: Dec 22, 2011 at 9:37 AM AKDT

Story Updated: Dec 22, 2011 at 9:37 AM AKDT

She should have flown the coop a long time ago, but it looks like an injured swan will be spending the holidays right here in Anchorage.

The tundra swan was picked up in Bethel early last month after it seemed unable to join its flock on the migration south. Vets at the Bird Treatment and Learning Center in Anchorage found the bird had a broken wing.

A wildlife refuge in Wisconsin was interested in taking the swan, but only if it turned out to be a female – something that is very different to determine from sight.

“There’s a size difference, but it’s hard to tell when you’re just looking at them,” said Heather Merewood of the Bird Treatment and Learning Center. “So we did a blood test and checked her DNA and her genetics and found out that she is definitely a girl.”

And with any luck, the swan should be off to her new home in Wisconsin very soon.

 

 

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