Swan Rescue is affiliated with many other societies and organisations, some that are dedicated to birds, some to animals, some to wildlife in general, and some who are just prepared to render assistance when requested.  Here are just a few of these good friends... Wychbold Swan Rescue Lead poisoning is once again on the increase!! For the last two years, Jan Harrigan, founder of Wychbold Swan Rescue near Droitwich has been taking blood samples from almost every full grown swan coming into her care from wherever, and for whatever reason.  These samples are sent to Keele University for analysis.  This reveals 65% of these birds are 'leaded'. Over the years an invaluable network of helpers has been built up; this includes other rescue organisations throughout the country, various canoe clubs and the Sea Cadets who are always extremely supportive, and of course individual members of the public who have recognised the need, and have wanted to become involved. Severn Area Rescue Association "...called to attend two separate shooting incidents involving a pair of adult swans, and a juvenile swan... ...during the height of the floods in October 1999..."     Statutory bodies, government departments, utilities and local authorities... Our involvement with swans has enabled us to build good working relationships with the Enviromental Agency, the Department of the Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture (now DEFRA), electricity companies and local authorities.   Swan Rescue South Wales is contracted to Bridgend County Borough Council to deal with all water bird problems on the Wilderness and Pwll-y-Waun ponds in Porthcawl. Angling clubs Angling related incidents present by far the most serious threat to water birds.  Read more on the concerns and how the Cwmbran angling club is 'tackling' this issue...    A contribution to the plight of wildlife...  Angling Clubs Angling-related incidents present by far the most serious threat to water birds.  This can cause a great deal of friction between the rescuers and the fishermen, and so the possibility of any kind of understanding being reached between the groups is practically non-existent.   Indifference to the plight of wildlife, and ineffective management by individual angling clubs have been found to be contributory factors in this lack of understanding.   Added to this is the fact there is rarely a sufficiently unbiased person on their committees with a genuine concern for both sides who is able to liaise between rescuers and anglers.   Cwmbran local Angling Club... About four years ago our local angling club in Cwmbran was lucky enough to find such a person, and he, Mal Salter was duly elected Conservation Officer.  Although he is committed to angling, Mal is also deeply concerned about wildlife and the effects discarded fishing tackle is having on water birds.  Since his election as Conservation Officer, the relationship between Swan Rescue and the Angling Club, which previously had been one of mutual suspicion, has become very positive with discussions taking place on a range of issues of mutual interest.  Arising from consultation with us, the club has produced a 'Code of Conduct' for their members which is adherred to very strictly.  This document has been circulated to most rescue groups nationwide, so making the benefit of the experience we have gained locally, available to many more clubs. Sea Cadets Our network of helpers include the Sea Cadets, who are always extremely supportive.  CLICK ANY PICTURE ABOVE   Contact Information  e-mail : ellen@swanrescue.org.uk  Tel : 01633 895241