Norwalk, Connecticut– Firefighters came to the rescue of a swan stuck in the frozen Connecticut River this week.
Norwalk Fire Department crews donned cold-water rescue suits and used ropes to carefully exit into the Norwalk River on Tuesday. They soon found the swan’s feet frozen in ice, and it took about 30 minutes to free the bird and bring it to shore without incident.
It’s not clear how long the swan was trapped before it was discovered, and firefighters were initially concerned it was dead. But as they approached, they noticed movement and quickly became optimistic about their rescue efforts.
Vice President Jonathan Maggio said the swan appeared grateful for the rescue, noting that the bird was “just happy to be out of the ice.” The swan was transported to a veterinary center, which said it was in good condition and expected to make a full recovery. Once it regains its strength, the swan will be released properly.
This was not the department’s first animal rescue operation during the recent period of extreme cold and stormy weather. The crew also rescued a duck and a dog, but said the swan rescue also gave them a valuable opportunity to train for future ice rescues.