City News Blog: City of Lakeland to Host 45th Annual Swan Roundup

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LAKELAND, FL (September 11, 2025) - The City of Lakeland Parks Division will kick off the 45th Annual Swan Roundup at 7:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, on Lake Morton. Staff from the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Department will gather the swans by boat to prepare them for their annual veterinary wellness check.

After being rounded up, the swans will be placed in large holding pens on the south side of Lake Morton overnight. The wellness exams, conducted by My Pet’s Animal Hospital, begin on Wednesday, October 29 at 8:00 a.m. The swans will be weighed, examined, and, in the case of young cygnets, microchipped before being released back to the lake. The annual roundup is an important event that allows the City to monitor the health and well-being of Lakeland’s iconic domesticated swans.

The Lake Morton swan population dates back to 1957, when Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom gifted a pair of swans to the City. As the flock grew, so did the need for regular care, leading to the start of the Swan Roundup in 1980. Since then, the tradition has continued annually. Veterinarian emeritus Dr. W.G. Gardner, Lakeland’s original "Swanvet," cared for the birds in the early years. Later, Dr. Patricia Mattson took over, and today, My Pet’s Animal Hospital provides veterinary services, donated at no cost to the City.

About My Pet’s Animal Hospital

Located at 2225 Drane Field Road, My Pet’s Animal Hospital is a full-service, AAHA-accredited facility. Their 5,100-square-foot clinic features modern exam rooms, treatment, and surgery areas—including laser surgery—and more than 40 pet boarding kennels. They operate three hospital wards and uphold the highest veterinary care standards set by the American Animal Hospital Association.

Bob Donahay, Director of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts said, “The Lake Morton swans are truly a cherished treasure in our community—loved by families for generations! The annual Swan Roundup is not just a tradition; it's a vital event that helps ensure our beautiful flock stays happy and healthy. We’re incredibly thankful to My Pet’s Animal Hospital for generously donating their time and expertise year after year. Their support is absolutely invaluable—we simply couldn’t do it without them.” He added, “Caring for our domestic swans costs the City around $10,000 annually, and this ongoing partnership plays a crucial role in keeping them well-fed, healthy, and thriving. It’s a team effort, and we’re proud to continue it together.”

About the City of Lakeland

Incorporated in January 1885, the City of Lakeland has grown to a population of over 127,000 and is one of Florida’s largest inland communities. Conveniently located along the I-4 corridor, Lakeland is just an hour from major tourist attractions and Gulf Coast beaches. The City also owns and operates Lakeland Electric, the third largest publicly owned utility in Florida, and one of the first to deliver electricity in the state, dating back to 1889.

For more information, visit www.lakelandgov.net or follow @lakelandgov on your favorite social media platforms.

 

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