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Is moldy bread turning these swans pink?
Campaigners say about 30% of the swan population shows signs of pink feather syndrome as moldy bread and rotten food are dumped into the river.
- Around 30 percent of Thames swans are developing "pink feather syndrome" after consuming moldy bread dumped into the river, campaigners warn. The condition turns feathers pink and brittle, endangering the birds.
- Shopkeepers are allegedly dumping large quantities of moldy food into the river to avoid paying private contractors for disposal. This decaying matter fosters Chrysonilia, a fungus that spreads to swans' feathers when they preen.
- Graham Neale, member of Caversham Wildlife Rescue, called this "the worst year I've seen for pink feather syndrome," noting it causes fatal respiratory issues. The condition also reduces water resistance, leaving swans susceptible to hypothermia.
- Reading Borough Council is treating the food dumping as an illegal act and requested public assistance to identify perpetrators. Campaigners placed warning signs along Thames Promenade to alert the community to these dangers.
- The RSPCA advises the public to stop feeding bread, which lacks necessary nutrients, and instead offer "finely chopped greens" in moderation as a supplement. This guidance aims to protect swan health long-term.
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13 Articles
13 Articles
Coverage Details
Total News Sources13
Leaning Left0Leaning Right5Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution56% Right
Bias Distribution
- 56% of the sources lean Right
56% Right
C 44%
R 56%
Factuality
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