Want A Swan? They May Be On Sale Soon In A Florida City.

Looking to buy a swan? Officials in Lakeland, Florida are planning to sell these elegant birds in the coming weeks, according to WRCB.

Why is the city selling swans? The city spends $10,000 a year feeding and caring for them.

According to Lakeland's website, there's been quality of life issues because of overpopulation.

"We currently have 80 swans here on Lake Morton to feed and care for, so we are looking to sell around 30 to 40 to ensure proper care for them all," Bob Donahay, Lakeland's Director of Parks and Recreation, told CNN.

Donahay added that the swans often fight over space in the lake and surrounding areas because there's so many of them. Sometimes they roam into streets and into traffic.

Officials said they will conduct an annual wellness check on the entire flock before putting them up for sale.

"We are fortunate to have veterinarians in town who donate their services to our annual wellness roundups where we check the health of all our swans," Donahay said.

The potential buyer must have a body of water near or inside their homes, where the swans can live comfortably. Each swan will cost $400, which is below market value, according to Donahay.

"While the city does not conduct background checks on each buyer, Donahay says they do try to get to know each prospect before selling," WCRB reported.

"We will have a great conversation about who they [the buyers] are and what their plans are for the swan or swans. And then we also make ourselves readily available if any of the swans experience medical issues down the road," Donahay said.

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