Rotten Food Dumped in River Harms Swans

A volunteer wildlife group in Reading has reported that individuals are fly-tipping large quantities of rotten food into a local river. Caversham Wildlife Rescue and Support (CWRS) stated that this practice is harming the area's swan population. According to the RSPCA, decaying bread can foster a fungus in the water that infects swans, leading to a condition called pink feather syndrome.

This disease severely weakens swans by reducing their natural waterproofing and ability to fly, leaving their feathers brittle and waterlogged. This makes them susceptible to hypothermia and potentially fatal outcomes. CWRS co-founder Lauren Ayres described the situation as worrying for the cherished local swans. The dumping, which began approximately two months ago, involves individuals citing cost savings over private waste disposal contractors.

Reading Borough Council has acknowledged the reports and is treating the incidents as fly-tipping to protect the wildlife. While the perpetrators have not yet been identified, the council is urging anyone with information to come forward. Authorities are considering installing additional signage and are prepared to issue substantial fines or prosecute those found responsible for this irresponsible behaviour.