Thursday 26 November 2020

Mid Winter Moult


During the 16 years I've observed the River Nairn Swans, I have never experienced a Swan Moulting during the Winter !  



Briget has now become the first adult Swan to do so. Over the past few days I noticed primary flight feathers laying around the riverside where she is located. I can now surmise what may have been the reason for her return to the river at the end of October.



Adult female swans of rearing age would normally moult about six weeks after hatching their eggs, usually in July.  Something possibly traumatic, may have happened to Briget and her family.
 


She may have lost her partner and cygnets, prompting her to forego moulting in July. Her appearance at the end of October in a malnourished and dishevelled condition, leads me to this conclusion.



 Now that she has been cared for with proper nourishment for the past month by the Trust, her health condition has improved enough to moult and renew her plumage.



While this is good news it is also highly dangerous for her, as she can no longer fly to escape a possible deadly attack by Slim and Sue !  



Her age and experience has so far allowed her to outwit and stay one step ahead of the less experienced Slim and Sue, as well as the protection by myself during feeding time. However, moulting takes about 6 weeks, so reluctantly the Trust has decided to have her relocated again to a place of safety. 



She needs continued proper nutrition during this time and the best place will be the National wildlife rescue centre at Fishcross. I have made arrangements for the Scottish SPCA to transport her down there next week. She will be cared for until fit for release and a new beginning. Short video of her preening today.


  

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