City News Blog: City of Lakeland to Host 46th Annual Swan Roundup

City News Blog: City of Lakeland to Host 46th Annual Swan Roundup

City of Lakeland to Host 46th Annual Swan Roundup

LAKELAND, FL (September 25, 2026) - On Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 7AM, the City of Lakeland will kick off the 46th Annual Swan Roundup at 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.

Following the roundup, the swans will be placed in large holding pens on the south side of Lake Morton for an overnight stay. At 7AM on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, veterinarians from My Pet's Animal Hospital will begin conducting wellness exams. During the exams, the swans will be weighed and examined, and young cygnets will be microchipped before being released back to the lake. The annual Swan Roundup is an important part of the City's ongoing care of Lake Morton's swan population. The wellness checks give veterinary professionals an opportunity to examine each bird and monitor the overall health of the flock.

A Royal History: Lakeland's Annual Swan Roundup

In 1957, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom gifted a pair of swans to the City of Lakeland. 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 City's swans in their early years. Dr. Patricia Mattson later took over their care, and today, My Pet's Animal Hospital provides veterinary services at no cost to the City.

About My Pet's Animal Hospital

My Pet's Animal Hospital is a full-service, AAHA-accredited facility located at 2225 Drane Field Road. The 5,100-square-foot clinic features modern exam rooms, treatment and surgery areas, including laser surgery, as well as more than 40 pet boarding kennels. The facility operates three animal hospital wards and follows veterinary care standards established by the American Animal Hospital Association.

"The Lake Morton swans are truly a cherished treasure in our community, loved by families for generations. The annual Swan Roundup is more than a tradition-it's a vital event that helps ensure our beautiful flock stays happy and healthy," said Bob Donahay, Director of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts. "We're incredibly thankful to My Pet's Animal Hospital for generously donating their time and expertise year after year. Their support is invaluable, and we simply couldn't do it without them."

Donahay 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."

Contacts:

Larry Little
Communications Director
City of Lakeland
(863) 394-3942
[email protected]

Jamin Smith
City of Lakeland
(863) 834-6394
[email protected]

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