Trumpeter Swan Re-Introduction Program
Lead Poisoning Issues
When Wye Marsh began re-introducing Trumpeter Swans, there was no indication that lead poisoning would be an issue. However, lead poisoning has affected more than thirty swans since 1991, and it has significantly impacted on the success of reintroduction efforts.
Waterfowl occasionally ingest spent lead shot (mistaking it for grit), resulting in poisoning that often causes death. It appears Trumpeters may be more prone to lead poisoning than other waterfowl, since their long necks enable them to reach deep into the sediment where lead shot may be found. Sometimes the swans can be treated successfully for lead poisoning; most of Wye Marsh's Trumpeters receive treatment at the Wild Bird Clinic at the University of Guelph. After the illness and death of several swans, a ban restricting the use of lead shot in hunting was established, but research concluded that lead shot would continue to be available for decades, due to its slow sinking rate into the sediment.
These are the general symptoms, but the list is not exhaustive. Whenever you see a swan displaying any unusual behaviour, please let us know as soon as possible by calling (705) 526-7809 or emailing stewardship@wyemarsh.com
Early symptoms:
- Lethargy, sleeps a lot
- General weakness
- Eats very little or stops eating altogether
- Segregates itself from other swans
- Abnormal behaviour
- Reluctant to fly
Advanced symptoms:
- Unable to fly
- Bright green diarrhea
- Unusual vocalizations
- Head shaking
- Gaping
- Drooping wings
- Eventually is unable to walk
The Wye Marsh, in conjunction with the Severn Sound Remedial Action Plan (SSRAP), spent years researching and developing a device to help accelerate the sedimentation rate of lead pellets, putting them out of the reach of swans and other waterfowl. Despite being a very expensive and labour-intensive undertaking, the SSRAP has been remediating lead 'hot spots' within Wye Marsh with the device, and hopes to eventually treat several similarly affected surrounding wetlands. Wye Marsh and the SSRAP continue to research the causes of lead poisoning and the solutions available to prevent future poisoning of Trumpeters and other waterfowl.
