Vernon

Castanet's Kelly Hayes reports

They call her Duchess, she's graced Vernon's Polson Park for almost 25 years - Duchess is a swan.

On Monday, February 20 someone noticed the monarch of the park was injured. She was found by the edge of Highway 97 bleeding and with damage to a wing that was perhaps caused overnight by a dog, coyote or vehicle.

The Bylaw Enforcement section of the Protective Services Division of the City of Vernon was called, and officers responded to assist. Once it was determined that Duchess was hurt, a call was put out to . . . the swan whisperer, Ron Gibson.

Gibson has developed a special relationship with Duchess. When her mate was killed about 15 years ago, Duchess formed a bond with Ron who, at that time, worked in Polson Park. Ron now works in Building Maintenance for the City, but he still shares a special connection with her.

With Ron’s assistance, Duchess was taken to the Central Animal Hospital for overnight assessment and was bandaged up the next morning. She has been moved to another City Manager’s farm, to recuperate before she may be returned to the park.

The Duchess of the park is doing well. 

The swan whisperer

Photo: Contributed - City of Vernon

Photo: Contributed - City of Vernon

Photo: Contributed - City of Vernon

Photo: Contributed - City of Vernon

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