'Lost and confused' swan rescued from busy road by police in Preston

A swan had to be rescued by police after it was found lingering on a road in Preston.
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Police said they were made aware of a "lost and confused swan" that was "endangering road users" in Tag Lane today (October 17).

Officers attended and quickly detained the bird before transporting the "offender back to the canal and its waiting family".

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"Just words of advice on this occasion," a spokesman for Lancashire Police said.

A "lost and confused swan" was rescued by police in Preston. (Credit: Lancashire Police)A "lost and confused swan" was rescued by police in Preston. (Credit: Lancashire Police)
A "lost and confused swan" was rescued by police in Preston. (Credit: Lancashire Police)

What you can do if you see a sick or injured swan

Swans are normally very placid creatures, but they are very strong and can use their wings to good effect when defending themselves, according to the RSPB.

It is better to contact the RSPCA, SSPCA, USPCA than to attempt to handle a distressed swan yourself.

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The swan was quickly captured before being taken back to the canal and its family. (Credit: Lancashire Police)The swan was quickly captured before being taken back to the canal and its family. (Credit: Lancashire Police)
The swan was quickly captured before being taken back to the canal and its family. (Credit: Lancashire Police)

Swans occasionally land on busy carriageways.

It is thought that thermals and wind turbulence over roads may knock the swans off balance and bring them down onto road surfaces.

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They need a long run before taking flight, and may be unable to take off if there is insufficient space.

If the bird is found on the road or trapped on a central reservation, or a rescue represents a real danger to the rescuer, the traffic police should be informed.

Swans are very attentive parents, so a young lone cygnet may mean that something is amiss.

Young cygnets are very vulnerable, so if you find one that you are absolutely sure is orphaned, put it safely into a cardboard box that contains a clean cloth.

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You should then contact a reputable swan rescue agency who will give you the necessary advice on how to care for it until they can collect it.

You should not attempt to hand-rear the cygnet yourself.

To find out more, click HERE.

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