Saying goodbye to the Zeus swan is something Ingrid van Gelder doesn’t like. For 33 years the swan has been visiting her courtyard where a ditch runs. Over the years they have forged a close bond. Now they threaten to separate, as Van Gelder is evicted from her home.
video-caption">After 33 years of farewell to Zwaan Zeus – NH Nieuws
Due to a long-term financial conflict with her former boss, Ingrid van Gelder is in dire financial straits. The problem has increased so much in the last ten years that she only lives on 50 euros a week and she gets help to pay off her debts. “It has been terrible for years and now I also have to leave my home. I really have no idea where to go,” says Van Gelder.
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In addition to the financial risks, something else of grave threat. Van Gelder has had a very special guest for 33 years. “Since the beginning, about 33 years ago, the swan Zeus has passed this way. He is like a pet to me. One has a cat, the other a dog. I have Zeus.”
Co-parenting
The close bond is also evident because Van Gelder can babysit Zeus’ babies. “I was actually some kind of co-parent of Zeus’ cygnets. As soon as they hatch, Zeus brings the cubs here. It’s like saying, ‘Here they are, keep an eye on them.’
“I don’t think he will get used to the new residents”
It is therefore unimaginable for Ingrid if she has to leave her home and can no longer see Zeus. “I don’t think she’ll get used to the new residents. And when I’m gone, I’ll definitely keep coming. It’s all very intense.”
Ingrid has a crowdfunding campaign called in life. Hopefully, he raises enough money to pay for all the expenses. But Van Gelder also realizes that the swan is already quite old. “I think this is practically the oldest swan in the world. If it dies, it’s bad. I’d rather host it.”
