The RSPCA has urged park visitors to stop feeding bread to swans after two of the birds turned pink from the mouldy chunks that had been tossed in their pond.
The two waterfowl have since been rescued after developing their flamingo-like complexion due to so-called ‘pink feather syndrome’.
This is caused by a fungus that develops when bread starts decaying in water, which then gets onto swans’ bills and is transferred to their feathers when they preen.
If the contaminants are not removed from the birds, it reduces the natural waterproofing in their plumage and their ability to swim and fly.
The feathers then become brittle and waterlogged, leaving them at risk of dying from hypothermia, so it’s vital they are treated as soon as possible.
The RSPCA was called to Moses Gate Country Park in Bolton, Greater Manchester, after members of the public spotted the pink birds swimming on a lake last month.
They were cleaned up following the incident and have now been released at Sale Water Park, where they are being monitored.
Food such as bread, which is high in protein and low in vitamins, can also lead to a wing deformity called ‘angel wing’.
As the bird grows, the wrist joint fails to develop properly and twists, causing some of the wing feathers to stick out from the body.
It’s also thought that genetics may have a role to play, as the condition has only been found in certain waterfowl populations.
There is no cure, although birds with this condition can live out their lives naturally but are unable to fly.
What should we be feeding swans?
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Stephen Wickham, who collected the swans, has urged park-goers to avoid feeding the birds bread in the future.
He said: ‘We know how much people enjoy feeding swans, ducks and geese, however, it’s important to make sure they are given the right food.
‘Unfortunately bread fills them up without giving them the nutrients they need and it can affect their health.
‘We’d encourage people to offer them finely chopped greens, such as cabbage, spinach and lettuce, as well as mixed corn, grain, wheat or birdseed.
‘Any feeding should also be done in moderation and only as a supplement to their natural diet.’
The RSPCA also recommends avoiding feeding water birds in just one place as their droppings can be messy and slippery, which could cause accidents.
And it could also put them at risk from cars, dogs or people who may wish to harm them.
Throwing food into the water, rather than trying to encourage birds onto the bank to feed them on land, is also encouraged, the charity said.
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