A beloved swan known as Mango, who had gained international fame, has passed away in Scarborough. Mango, a trumpeter swan frequently seen at the Scarborough Bluffs and Lake Ontario shoreline, was euthanized on September 9 after being cared for at the Toronto Wildlife Centre. Identified as Y37, Mango was being treated for lead poisoning, likely due to ingesting lead from shot and fishing sinkers. His admission to the TWC on August 20 marked the beginning of his three-week battle.
Mango and his partner, Charlotte, rose to online stardom in May of the previous year when a heartwarming video of their reunion post-recovery went viral. Director of the TWC, Nathalie Karvonen, expressed that Mango had been under their care on multiple occasions, all incidents linked to fishing waste. She emphasized the dangers posed to wildlife by discarded fishing materials such as hooks, lures, and sinkers, which can cause severe injuries or fatalities.
Karvonen highlighted the misconception waterfowl have when nibbling at the lake bed, mistaking lead items for harmless pebbles. While pebbles aid in digestion for swans, ingesting lead proves fatal. With Mango’s passing, Charlotte is left to mourn, likely awaiting his return. Karvonen urged individuals to be mindful of cleaning up after fishing activities to prevent similar tragedies.
The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association has been advocating for a ban on lead fishing weights and shot due to the significant harm they pose to both wildlife and the environment, emphasizing the need for responsible disposal of fishing-related waste.