15 fire fighters needed to rescue swans from sewage works near Ratho

Three swans had to be rescued after they became trapped in disused sewage works - but it took 15 fire fighters five hours to save the birds.

The Scottish SPCA was alerted to the birds on 20 April by workers at Newbridge Sewerage Treatment Works near Ratho.

Scottish SPCA inspector Jennifer Surgeon said: “The swans had become trapped in the decommissioned sewage tanks. Sadly, one swan had already passed away, so we knew it was imperative that we get the remaining three birds out.

“My colleagues, animal rescue officer Darren Malcolm and senior animal rescue officer Melissa Mailtand, and I tried to retrieve the swans but we were unable to reach them.

A fire fighter rescues a swan at a disused sewage works near Ratho.

“We called the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, who were able to assist with the incident.

“In the end it took three fire appliances, around 15 fire fighters and five hours to get the swans out.

“Thankfully, the swans were unharmed after their ordeal and we were able to transport them to a safe area for release.

“We’re really grateful to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service for their assistance with this incident. Without them, we’d have had no way to reach the swans.”

Swans swim in water at a disused sewage works before being rescued.

The Scottish SPCA campaign #WildlifeWise aims to educate the public on when wild animals may require assistance and when it’s best to leave them alone.

The Scottish SPCA animal helpline is open from 7am-9pm every day and can be reached on 03000 999 999.

To find out more, about the campaign visit www.scottishspca.org/wildlifewise.

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Around 15 fire fighters were on hand to rescue swans from a disused sewage works.

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