Trapped cygnet rescued from Blackford Pond

A cygnet who became trapped between two logs at a pond in Edinburgh has been returned to his family after being rescued by the Scottish SPCA.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity attended on Monday morning after the distressed cygnet was discovered at Blackford Pond.

Senior Inspector Stuart Murray waded in to free the bird, who was then taken to a vets for assessment and treatment.

Animal Rescue Officer Steph Grant later returned the cygnet to the pond where he was reunited with his parents and six siblings. She said, “There’s an island in the middle of the pond where the swans sleep and the cygnet must have slipped between the logs when he was following the rest of his family back into the water.

“His leg was bruised and swollen from where he had been pulling to try and free himself so the vet gave him some pain relief and an anti-inflammatory injection.

“I was able to return the cygnet to the pond in the afternoon and it was lovely to watch him re-join his family.

“There is a ranger who monitors the pond as well as lots of regular visitors to this spot so there are plenty of people who can keep an eye on this little guy and contact us if there are any further concerns.

“However, we’re confident his leg will heal and right now the best place for him is with his parents.”

Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed animal should call the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.

Photos by Scottish SPCA