Swan found burned in NJ state park

MULLICA HILL, N.J. (WPVI) -- Officials are trying to figure out how a swan ended up burned in a South Jersey park.

It's nesting season but one mother swan is recovering at Delaware Valley Veterinary Hospital instead of on her nest.

Swans usually live in the wild as a pair but this swan was rescued from Parvin State Park after being found by a group of runners.

"They adapt pretty well to people which is why she was close enough to get hurt. Just do just like the ducks and the geese if you through bread long enough, they will come up and get it," said Dr. Steven Milden.

Authorities think something was poured on the bird's face sometime Monday afternoon on evening. She was found hiding in the woods on Tuesday.

"Where the feathers are missing, that skin has been chemically burned. The feathers themselves are not singed so it wasn't a fire type situation. Our first clinical impression when we saw her is that the skin had been burned; whether it was an acid, a lighter fluid, anything that's harsh - these birds have sensitive skin," said Dr. Milden.

Veterinarians are optimistic she will make a full recovery and be able to get back to her nest and her eggs.

Swans mate for life. For now, he mate will sit on her eggs and wait for her return.

Officials say it's hard to determined exactly what happened unless someone comes forward.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Cumberland County SPCA at 856-691-1500.