West Sussex wildlife hospital launches fundraiser to give three young swans a warmer winter
A wildlife charity in Sidlesham is appealing for donations to provide three young swans with softer, more comfortable flooring as they prepare to spend the winter in its care.
Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital, in Cow Lane, is hoping to raise £300 to purchase artificial grass for a purpose-built water pool enclosure where three young cygnets will spend the winter before being released back into the wild next spring.
So far, the appeal has raised £210, leaving just £90 to reach its target.
The wildlife hospital has said the three cygnets are ‘currently too young to be released this year’ and ‘need to remain at the hospital until their plumage has fully developed and they are able to fly’, giving them the best possible chance of survival when they eventually return to the wild.
At present, the young swans are temporarily being housed in one of the hospital's summer gull enclosures. However, according to the wildlife hospital the accommodation is ‘not suitable’ for the longer term as it is ‘liable to flooding.’
A spokesperson for Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital said: “The enclosure they will be moving into currently has concrete so it needs a softer and more comfortable flooring so their feet do not get sore over the cold and wet winter ahead.
“If you are able to donate towards our swan flooring appeal, so we can purchase AstroTurf then we, and the swans, would be very grateful.
“Your contribution towards our appeal will make a big impact, whether you donate £5 or £50 - everything helps.”
Anyone wishing to support the swan flooring appeal can donate through Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital's Facebook fundraiser: