RSPCA to rescue for swan struggling in freezing conditions

Christmas shoppers have been left stunned as an exhausted swan was spotted struggling outside a shop.

A sizeable local crowd had gathered to watch the swan outside the Outfit store at the Morfa Bay shopping precinct in Swansea on Thursday.

She was rescued by the RSPCA, who collected her and provided overnight care, before transferring her to a specialist wildlife facility for further support.

The charity hopes the swan can be released back into the wild, after a few days - appearing fit and healthy, with only a small graze on her ankle.

It is thought the swan had moved to the spot after a nearby pond froze over and the bird moved away.

RSPCA animal collection officer Ellie West said: "The winter months can be a hugely challenging time for many wildlife, including swans.

"This poor swan was absolutely exhausted, and a little shell-shocked with so many shoppers walking past.

"After collecting her, she was taken to a specialist centre for monitoring - and it is hoped she can be released back to the wild in the near future."