The Gracie Swan Foundation was incorporated in Florida in January of 2014. It is a non-profit public charity whose donations are tax-deductible under IRS 501(c)3.

The primary goal of the Foundation is to support efforts toward the care of swans, including adherence to the principles of wildlife management and regulations governing exotic species in Florida. As mute swans are not native to Florida, the State has cautioned against their unchecked proliferation into territories of native species. Thus, controlling their breeding and keeping them from establishing a territory beyond Longboat Key is paramount.

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After years of studying the environment and behavior of the swans, it appears that there is sufficient habitat for eight pairs of swans. In May of 2017, there was one breeding pair, eight same gender pairs, and thus full population. New cygnets will either replace those who have died or be placed with responsible owners elsewhere in the Sarasota area.  

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At some point in the future, the breeding pair will age out.  Then with all males on Harbourside and all females on Islandside, and without the ability to fly, a merger will create a new breeding pair. Swans are one of very few species that will live collaboratively as same genders.

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As annual breeding continues, the cost of veterinary service, supplemental feeding, equipment, supplies, cygnet placement, and administration will be significant. Your voluntary tax-deductible contribution is needed and sincerely appreciated. The directors of the Foundation also donate to the Foundation and serve without any type of compensation, thus 100% of the funds go to the care of the swans.