History
Swan Lifeline is the oldest and original
registered charity entirely devoted to the care and needs of sick and injured swans. The
charity was formed in 1986 by a group of dedicated people who have been involved in swan
rescue and treatment for many years. The trustees are actively involved in the work of the
charity and, until recently, the whole organisation is run by volunteers.We now employ a
day time co-ordinator to ensure the smooth running of the center on weekdays.
At Cuckoo Weir Island, Eton, we have ponds
and pens plus an intensive care unit and look after approx.170 birds at any one time.We
have a specialist bird washing bath, a casualty reception area and a well equipped
treatment room. Our vet, swan expert Stephen Cooke, visits our centre when required to
conduct examinations and oversee treatment. Our facilities allow him to carry out x-rays
and operations on-site.
During the past fifteen years, over 11,500
swans have been rescued and treated by Swan Lifeline. Our aim is to secure a treatment
centre in perpetuity not dependent on any one person or group of people.
Main Area of Operation
We operate from our headquarters situated
on a small island in the Thames at Eton leased to us by Eton College at no cost and close
to the large non-breeding flock at Windsor. Our team of rescuers cover the Thames Valley
and Shire Counties although we often travel beyond and work closely with other swan rescue
groups throughout the country.
We offer a 24 hour service and can be
contacted on our Rescue Line 01753 589397
Homes Required in Sheltered
Waters
Encounters with objects, both on the
ground and in the air, can necessitate either one or both wings to be partially or fully
amputated. We are always looking for suitable homes, ideally with a small lake or large
pond, an area of grass for grazing and a fox-proof fence around a small island where they
can sleep and nest in safety. If you think you could offer a pair of swans a good home,
please give us a call on 01753 859397, we will be happy to discuss it with you.
Volunteers
We are always in need of volunteers to
work at our Treatment Centre in Eton and rescuers. If you have a few hours to spare and
would like to work with this truly endearing creature in its hour of need, do please give
us a call on 01753 859397. We often have assistance from trainee vets and veterinary
nurses and both sides benefit and gain worthwhile experience.
Please visit our Website for further
details on our charity and our swan sponsorship scheme. |
