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Firefighters Rescue Swan Stuck in Frozen Connecticut River
Norwalk Fire Department crews used ropes and cold-water rescue suits to free the bird after its feet were frozen into the ice.
Published on Feb. 4, 2026
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Firefighters in Norwalk, Connecticut came to the rescue of a swan that was stuck in the frozen Norwalk River this week. The Norwalk Fire Department crews donned cold-water rescue suits and used ropes to carefully move out onto the river, where they found the swan's feet were frozen into the ice. It took them about 30 minutes to free the bird and bring it to shore without incident.
Why it matters
Animal rescues, especially in extreme winter weather conditions, are an important part of the work fire departments do to protect all members of a community. This incident provided valuable training for the Norwalk firefighters to prepare for future ice rescues.
The details
The firefighters were initially concerned the swan had died, but as they approached, they noticed movement and became optimistic about the rescue effort. Once freed, the swan appeared grateful and was taken to a veterinarian center, where it is expected to make a full recovery before being properly released.
- On Tuesday, Norwalk Fire Department crews responded to the swan stuck in the frozen Norwalk River.
- It took the firefighters about 30 minutes to free the swan from the ice.
The players
Norwalk Fire Department
The local fire department in Norwalk, Connecticut that conducted the swan rescue operation.
Jonathan Maggio
The deputy chief of the Norwalk Fire Department who said the swan appeared grateful to be rescued from the ice.
What they’re saying
“The swan was 'just happy to be out of the ice.'”
— Jonathan Maggio, Deputy Chief, Norwalk Fire Department
What’s next
Once the swan regains its strength at the veterinarian center, it will be properly released back into the wild.
The takeaway
This swan rescue highlights the important role firefighters play in protecting all members of a community, including wildlife, especially during extreme winter weather conditions. The successful operation also provided valuable training for the Norwalk Fire Department to prepare for future ice rescues.
