Swans have glided across England’s rivers, lakes and ponds for centuries, offering a sense of peace and beauty to the countryside. These elegant birds (some are owned by the King, but but not all) hold a special place in our culture and hearts.
Yet today swans face real threats, from pollution and pond litter, to shortages of safe nesting sites. Keeping our swans safe takes effort from all of us, whether we live nearby or are visiting places where they live.
I’ve developed into quite a swan. I’m one of those people that will probably look better and better as I get older, until I drop dead of beauty. Rufus Wainwright
In England, the three main types of swans you will see are:
- Mute swans (the most common) are less vocal, and easily recognised by their orange bills.
- Whooper swans migrate to England in winter. They are larger with yellow/black bills, and known for their loud calls.
- Bewick’s Swans are smaller, also with yellow/black bills. They also travel long distances to spend winter in England.
Keep Ponds and Rivers Clean
Litter and pollutants can quickly harm both swans and their habitats. Plastic bags, fishing lines and discarded rubbish often end up in the water, which can choke or entangle swans.
Even small amounts of oil or chemicals can spoil water quality and wreck nests. Local clean-up efforts really help, and even picking up a stray bottle during a visit makes a difference. Small acts, done together, add up to safer homes for these beautiful birds.
Don’t Drop Litter
The most helpful yet simplest way to help swans and all wildlife is to not drop litter. Take litter home with you, and pick up any litter you find, to safely dispose of in a nearby bin. Get involved in local litter clean-up campaigns, to clear rubbish that affects swan habitats.
Recycle Fishing Waste
Anglers have special responsibility to use fishing line recycling bins, to avoid hooks and other items being ingested by swans and other wildlife.
Monomaster is a nifty invention to store fishing line, using a unique design (to avoid encouraging nesting birds).
Voluntary bans on lead shot have not worked (100,000 wildfowl die yearly from ingesting metal in used pellets). Lead shot also harms up to half a million other creatures.
Support Swan Sanctuaries
Swan sanctuaries do a wonderful job, helping to educate the public, and providing emergency rescue and rehabilitation services.
You can volunteer (locally) or donate (nationally). You can also contact these organisations for help or concerns (don’t worry too much if swans fold one leg into their back – it’s like us crossing our legs).
It’s illegal to harm swans (or disturb nests). Report to wildlife crime unit (can be anonymous, if preferred).
Ask Councils to Install Bird Diverters
Swans fly well but need a long run to take off, due to body weight. So they often fly into pylons or busy roundabouts. Experts say councils could install bird diverters (these can also help prevent owls and bats from being injured or electrocuted).
Is It Okay to Feed Swans, Ducks and Geese?
Swans naturally live on grass, insects and molluscs. They should in theory be able to find their own food easily, under the water.
If you do choose to feed extra food, Swan Sanctuary says to only feed (occasional torn) lettuce, spinach or fresh (torn) bread is best (throw it on the water, as swans have no teeth). This also discourages swans from coming onto dry land, where they can be at risk from dogs and traffic.
Never feed mouldy/stale/crusty bread nor buttered bread (this smears on feathers, affecting waterproofing/insulation).
Never feed swans on nests, as it upsets brooding and encourages vermin. The Swan Food Project has good tips on what to (and what not to) feed swans.
Protect Nests and Nesting Areas
Swans need quiet, sheltered spaces along the water to build their nests and raise cygnets (swan chicks). These spots are often disturbed by dogs, people or careless boating. On walks, keep dogs away from nesting sites and stick to marked paths.
If you spot a nest, give it plenty of space and let others know it’s there. Signs and simple barriers can help, especially in parks and urban areas where swans are more likely to be disturbed.
Report Injured or Distressed Swans
Swans sometimes get caught in fishing lines, swallow hooks or suffer from dog attacks. If you see a swan in trouble, call a local wildlife rescue or the RSPCA. Quick action often means the difference between life and death.
Keep rescue numbers handy if you visit water often, and never try to handle an injured swan yourself. These birds are strong and can be frightened easily; experts know how to help safely.
Avoid Unnecessary Disturbance
Swans are sensitive, especially during breeding and moulting seasons. Noise, fast-moving boats and aggressive dogs can cause swans to abandon nests or flee into danger. Stick to slow speeds in boats near swans, and encourage others to do the same.
Remind children not to chase or shout at swans, and always treat them with the respect they deserve. A peaceful environment lets swans nest, feed and care for their young without stress.
Plant Native Vegetation Along Banks
Plants along riverbanks and ponds do more than look pretty. They stop erosion, provide cover and help filter runoff before it reaches the water. Swans use reeds and grasses for nesting, and the right plants offer a steady food source, too.
Where possible, encourage councils and landowners to plant or protect native plants. Even home gardens close to water can play a part if planted thoughtfully.
Good Books About Swans
Swan: Portrait of a Majestic Bird is the celebration of our mute swans, by a wildlife writer who has studied mute swans for over 30 years since boyhood and (as a pilot who shares their skies) speaks up for the mute, answering questions about nature and future.
The Swan: A Biography is by nature writer Stephen Moss. With beautiful illustrations, swans are the ‘avian equivalent of Sir David Attenborough’. Swans have been part of England’s scenery for hundreds of years. Thankfully swans are highly protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.
