City of Worcester, MA

We appreciate the public’s concern regarding the swan at Institute Park. The municipality and state agencies are closely monitoring the swan’s condition. Currently, the swan is able to move freely and eat and there is no immediate danger to its well-being. After consultation with Boston Animal Rescue and the Massachusetts Environmental Police and Division of Fisheries & Wildlife, the consensus is to not interfere with the swan and allow it to naturally remove the fishing line.

The public is strongly advised to not approach the swan. Boating and paddling are not recommended on Salisbury Pond, and attempting to approach the swan would pose significant risk to both the swan and anyone attempting to remove the line.

We will continue to closely monitor the situation and adapt our approach should conditions change.