Young swan euthanised after multiple hooks found
A community warning has been issued in Inverclyde after a cygnet was put to sleep due to severe injuries caused by fishing tackle. Cowdenknowes Residents said veterinary teams discovered three separate fishing hooks in the young swan — one in the oesophagus, one in the stomach and another in the neck — leading to the decision to euthanise the bird on welfare grounds.
The residents' group publicly thanked Abbey Veterinary Group in Paisley and Greenock for their efforts to save the cygnet. In an update shared after the initial incident, the group confirmed a second cygnet had since been found with a hook lodged in its neck and fishing line wrapped around it.
Appeal to anglers and dog owners at Murdieston Dams
In light of the injuries, Cowdenknowes Residents appealed directly to anglers to fish responsibly and, crucially, not to fish at the Murdieston Dams if they cannot do so safely. The group also asked dog walkers to keep pets away from swans and cygnets on the grass while efforts continue to assist the injured bird.
Murdieston Dams are regularly used by families, walkers and anglers. The incidents highlight how lost or discarded fishing gear can harm wildlife and create risks around popular waterside paths and grassed areas. The group’s message is aimed at preventing immediate further harm and encouraging practical steps to reduce hazards where waterfowl gather.
What residents can do now
- Anglers are urged to check tackle and lines frequently and to avoid fishing at the Dams if safe practice cannot be guaranteed.
- Members of the public should give swans and cygnets space, particularly on grassed areas, and keep dogs under close control.
- If an injured bird is seen, avoid intervention that could worsen entanglement and seek help from local animal welfare contacts or veterinary services.
The circumstances described by Cowdenknowes Residents underline the vulnerability of young birds to hooks and monofilament line. Even when not immediately visible, lodged hooks and trailing gear can cause internal damage or entanglement. The group’s call is framed around what can be done quickly by people using the area, rather than relying solely on later clean-up efforts.
Incidents reported by Cowdenknowes Residents
| Incident | Details | Location/Organisation | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cygnet euthanised | Three hooks found: neck, oesophagus, stomach | Assisted by Abbey Veterinary Group (Paisley & Greenock) | Bird put to sleep on welfare grounds |
| Second cygnet injured | Hook in neck, fishing line wrapped around bird | Reported by Cowdenknowes Residents at Murdieston Dams | Further help being sought |
Why this matters locally
Murdieston Dams and surrounding paths are among Inverclyde’s most visited outdoor areas. A cluster of wildlife injuries responds directly to choices made at the waterside, which is why the group’s warning focuses on immediate behaviour change — responsible angling and giving swans room — to prevent further harm. With one bird already lost and another reportedly injured, the appeal is aimed at stopping similar incidents during the busy summer period when both angling activity and footfall typically rise.
Residents who use the Dams are being asked to be vigilant for discarded tackle and to avoid confronting wildlife. Where an animal is at risk, the encouragement is to contact appropriate help rather than attempting risky rescues. The thanks offered to local vets reflect the critical role played by services in Paisley and Greenock, but the group’s message is clear: prevention at the water’s edge remains the most effective protection for Inverclyde’s swans and their young.
