Many geese and swan live near our ponds. When one of them is injured it is a big deal for us as a community.

“Whenever a doctor can’t do good, he must be kept from doing harm.” Hippocrates


Many geese and swan live near our ponds. They are a big part of our community. They have been entertainment for us and our children. When the birds have babies, we watch as they take their first steps or first swim. These birds become a part of our family. They are survivalists too, if I ever saw any. So when one of them is injured it is a big deal for us as a community.

I have gotten many calls about the geese and swans when they are hurt. I have chased quite a few and have managed to catch a couple as well. It is really nice when I get separate people calling on the same bird. At least I know that we are all paying attention. However, sometimes people get upset that no one has caught the injured bird or helped it.

First, you have to remember we are dealing with an animal who can fly. Second, if it is too hard to catch, then it probably can survive on it’s own even if it’s hurt. It is hard for us to accept that they may better staying in the wild, rather than injured in a cage. The stress alone would be torture. If it worked out that the bird could be cured, and then released, great! Then it is worth the catch. That is the ultimate goal for any injured animal, but many times it doesn’t work out.

A lot of these birds have high lead count from old fishing equipment or polluted water. Many times their injuries involve a break in the wing. As you know, with a bone you have maybe 48 hours to set it before it heals on its own, usually the wrong way. Many times these breaks affect their flying. This is never an easy call. The most important factor is, what is best for the bird? You have to ask yourself, what kind of life could they have, and are they suffering?

Many times these birds have to be put down. I can’t in good conscience release a bird who cannot fly, back into the wild. That would leave him with no escape plan and no way to protect himself. But I can leave him be, even though he is injured, and keep an eye on him. Sometimes, when you can’t heal them, you have to wonder, are they better off with part of a life? This is a hard decision to make. So before you get upset that you see the bird still injured and in the wild, put yourself in the bird’s shoes. What future would you prefer?

If you ever find wildlife or have a wildlife question you can go to the State Fish and Wildlife website at www. and look for a rehabilitator in your area. You can also call your local Fish and Wildlife at 508-759-3406 . If you have any questions for me, you can email me at If you have any land you would like to donate for wildlife conservation, please let me know. And as always, remember keep wildlife wild.

JoAnn Byrnes is a local state permitted wildlife rehabilitator who has been working with wildlife for over 20 years. She earned her bachelor of science degree in Biology from Bridgewater State University. Any questions? Email her at