Reuniting Hatched Cygnets with Swan Parents

[Vicki Leigh]

In May of 2022 I successfully hatched Katie, a female swan, who I rescued from the nest where her parents were killed by a bobcat. She and her mate, Ben, successfully built a nest and she was sitting on 3 eggs. Unfortunately a dog scared her off of the nest and she did not return to it. I rescued the eggs and have them in an incubator. My question is: Does anyone know if the parents will accept the cygnets when they hatch?

 

[sourland]

When the temperature allows, I would pen them where the adults can see and hear them. I'd monitor very closely, and if they appear to want to parent the cygnets. I'd give it a try. I've done this successfully with geese, but have no experience with swans. It is not an instantaneous think - takes time. I'm not certain how this will work with first time parents. Good luck.

 

[Vicki Leigh]

Thanks so much.