Trumpeter swan found dead in Wye River of unknown causes

Trumpeter swan J23, known as Charles (L), is pictured next to his mate, Acorn, on Tues., Dec. 3, 2024. (Facebook/Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre/Anthony Taliana)

The body of a trumpeter swan has been recovered from the Wye River in Midland after someone spotted it while out for a walk.

Staff with the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre in Midland says the swan J23, known as Charles, passed away between the evening of Dec. 3 and the morning of Dec. 4.

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“Our team braved the elements by canoe to rescue his body from the Wye River,” the non-profit organization posted to Facebook.

Staff believe Charles may have been 18 years old at the time of his death, but said he wasn’t displaying signs of illness, injury or poor health the day before he was found.

Charles and his mate, Acorn, were often spotted together, and staff say it’s likely she will find a new partner in time.

“She’ll be solo for a bit but will pair up with a new mate during breeding season,” the wildlife centre commented. “Charles never produced offspring, so she has a new opportunity this spring. Swans will move on after the loss of a mate.”

The trumpeter swan’s body will be sent for an autopsy to determine the cause of death.

According to the Trumpeter Swan Society, the large waterfowl can live up to 20 or more years, with at least one having reportedly survived 35 years.