Thursday, November 08, 2007

Swan Update

Following the previous post about the disappearance of one of the adult swans on Kingsmere, we can now confirm that the adult male has been killed. We still do not know how this has happened but we have found a wing and some feathers in the woods some 300m from the pond.

Because of our concerns for their safety the four youngsters, and hopefully the adult female, are, with the assistance of London Wildcare and local Swan Rescue volunteers, now being moved to a colony at Kingston Lock. This is the time of year that the juvenile swans would be leaving their parents anyway but because of the terrain at the Queensmere it is almost impossible for them to fly out on their own.

Two of the juveniles have already been moved and the others will follow - just as soon as they can be caught.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

How awful that such a beautiful swan should be treated in such a cruel manner. At least something positive is being done to protect the other swan and signets. It's a credit to all involved in their rescue and protection. At least there is some humanity in this world.

Anonymous said...

How awful that such a beautiful swan should be treated in such a cruel manner. At least something positive is being done to protect the other swan and signets. It's a credit to all involved in their rescue and protection. At least there is some humanity in this world!

Anonymous said...

It is heartbreaking that his has happened to this lovely family, who were so brave and determined to thrive in an environment which was often hostile to them - unruly dogs, idiotic members of the public, scary crows, and a relatively small area in which they chose to live. My heart goes out to dear Mrs Swan who must be grieving so deeply for her husband. And what a trauma for the children to witness their father's death. One (or more) cruel, heartless and wicket person has devastated this family, and spoiled things for everyone. The pond just isn't the same now - it was such a special thing to see them there every week. Thank goodness for those who were able to intervene and protect the rest of the family from the same threat. I'm sure all our thoughts are with the swans as they find a new life away from Queensmere. And poor rangers too - what a terrible time you must have all had dealing with this terrible thing.