Trumpeter swan pierced by arrow brought back to Alaska SeaLife Center, unable to fly south with others

Posted on: November 2, 2009 | admin | 1 Comment | Print Article | Rate Post:

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NEWS FROM THE ALASKA SEALIFE CENTER

A trumpeter swan that had been rescued and treated by Alaska SeaLife Center staff after getting shot with a target arrow was recaptured today on Tern Lake and brought back to the research and rehabilitation facility in Seward. SeaLife Center personnel and Moose Pass residents had been monitoring the swan since the rescue and arrow removal on September first, and responded as quickly as possible when its mate and other migrating swans moved south and left the injured bird behind.

“When she didn’t fly off with the other swans, we knew that she still needed help,” said Avian Curator Heidi Cline. “There are coyotes in the area and we saw fresh brown bear scat near the lake, so she would have been vulnerable to predators.”

Although the target arrow that pierced the swan’s wing had penetrated nearly 10 cm deep, it had missed vital organs and wing bones, so Alaska SeaLife Center staff were optimistic for a full recovery.  Dr. Pam Tuomi, the Center’s senior veterinarian, examined the swan today and found that her wounds had healed completely, there was no sign of infection, and the bird had maintained its healthy weight.

“The swan was unable to fully extend the wing that had been injured,” Cline reported. “She was probably sore and held it close to her body for a week or so after the injury, and lack of use eventually caused muscle atrophy and stiffness.”

The swan is doing well and will remain at the Alaska SeaLife Center while plans are made for transport to another facility for long-term rehabilitation and possible physical therapy.  Despite offers of $4,000 in rewards by local conservation groups, the swan’s shooter remains at large.

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