A SWAN with a neck deformity has been released back into the wild to search for love after spending a night at a wildlife rescue centre.

Manningtree residents had expressed concerns about ‘Wonky’ the swan after spotting him by The Walls.

Despite the quirky Essex bird struggling to find love ahead of the breeding season, experts have reassured concerned residents he is ok.

Kind-hearted volunteer Gill Lewis, founder of WeCare Wildlife Rescue, has had Wonky on her radar for several months, after reports of a swan being injured when another landed on it circulated in January.

The 56-year-old said: “We’ve been giving extra feed to the Manningtree swans since November, as the flock was not looking in the best of health.

“Every time we look out for Wonky, he looks odd with his head resting on his back between his wings but he happily joins the feeding scrum and can hold his own – we’ve even seen him fly.

“Now it’s the start of breeding season Wonky is more on his own as the other swans are pairing off and he is finding it difficult to attract a mate.

“This means members of the public are beginning to notice him and are, understandably, concerned for his welfare.”

After responding to calls reporting of an injured swan with a bad neck, WeCare managed to catch the animal and got him checked over by a vet.

The swan was heartily fed and spent the night at the Brantham based rescue centre before being released back to The Walls today.

Mrs Lewis added: “He is fine, the vet checked his neck and, although carrying an old injury, it is not broken.

“Other than this, his wings and legs are all ok and he is alert and feisty – he’s certainly been giving my dogs the back-off treatment with lots of aggressive hissing!

Gazette:

“We think releasing him back is the kindest thing to do. Despite having an obvious disability, Wonky has learnt to live with it and knows his flock and the area.

“We feel it would be cruel to put him in a sanctuary with swans he doesn’t know and who will all be pairing-off and fighting rival males.

“We will continue to monitor him and give him extra feed. With luck, he’ll find a mate and live a long and happy life.”

If anyone in the area sees an animal they are concerned about they can contact WeCare on their Facebook page.