Two rare bird rescues in Russia's Krasnodar region save a swan and stork

Two separate bird rescues took place in Russia's Krasnodar region this month. A weakened swan was found on a frozen lake in Gelendzhik, while a stork with an injured wing was saved in Belorechensk. Both birds received urgent care before being prepared for release.

The swan was discovered in a critical state on the icy surface of a Gelendzhik lake. It appeared severely emaciated, with pale mucous membranes pointing to anaemia and an electrolyte imbalance. Unlike healthy swans, it showed no fear of humans, a sign of extreme weakness.

Examination revealed a heavy infestation of feather mites around its head and neck. Veterinarians treated the bird with antiparasitic drugs and gave it vitamins to restore its immune and digestive health. Once the snow melted, the swan was released back into the wild. Meanwhile, in Belorechensk, rescuers found a stork unable to fly or stand due to a wing injury. The bird received immediate first aid, and its wing was stabilised to allow for further treatment.

No other documented cases of injured or weakened wild birds in the Krasnodar region have been recorded over the past year. The swan and stork are now recovering after targeted medical support. Their rescues highlight the efforts of local teams to assist wildlife in distress.