NEW BETHLEHEM, Pa. (RVO) – Efforts to reunite a local family of Swans in New Bethlehem PA (located along the Redbank Creek) continues to move forward as volunteers ask the public for help.

The adult male and adult female, the mated pair, are shown in the back. The 2 babies are more to the front and side of them. (Photo courtesy of Suzan Noerr)

The New Bethlehem community purchased a mated pair of Muted Swans nearly three (3) years ago. The swans lived on the Redbank Creek and could often be seen behind the VFW and around Gumtown Park.

In the Spring of 2017, the New Bethlehem Swans had two (2) babies who quickly grew to full size. All together, the New Bethlehem community had four (4)  swans total; two (2) adults and two (2) babies. The two adult swans cannot fly while the two babies can fly.

The adult male is shown in the lead with the adult female, his mate, behind him. The babies are to the side and rear of the mother. (Photo courtesy of Suzan Noerr)

Due to recent weather conditions, specifically with ice melting and the Redbank Creek flooding, the two adult swans washed over the New Bethlehem Dam and floated downstream. The Swans were found on the Redbank Creek below the Distant Fire hall and local volunteers managed to capture the adult male and returned him to his home in New Bethlehem, where one baby has stayed. Community members have reported the second baby may have left the area as it is able to fly and some folks believe the second baby swan may be near Kittanning.

Community member Suzan Noerr shared; “The babies were a little more unafraid than the parents and would come quite near if you put bread out for them. Needless to say, the adult mother Mute Swan was unable to be captured and with the high water has floated away from the area behind the Distant fire hall, so we have no idea where to locate her, in order to rescue her again.”

The mother swan is shy, cautious and will not come close to people. Community members wish to reunite this mated pair and their family as soon as possible.

Mute Swan sighting in Cowansville PA (courtesy of Patrice Walborn)

SIGHTING:
On February 19th 2018, Ms. Patrice Walborn, a resident of Cowansville PA posted a photograph (pictured right) of a Mute Swan on social media.

Some community members believe the swam Ms. Walborn had seen may be one of the missing New Bethlehem Swans.

Ms. Walborn stated; “I’ve already talked to someone from New Bethlehem. Unfortunately I haven’t seen the swan since the day it was here.”

CONTACT:
Folks are encouraged to share this article and contact Suzan & Terry Noerr at the New Bethlehem Fraternal Order of the Eagles @ 814.275.1243 with any information or sightings.

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*Photo slideshow and video courtesy of Patty Kline