On these days with short, sharp showers and strong wind forecast, netting isn't an option. Just for a bit of fresh air and to keep the ringing ticking along swans are a good option once the cygnets get big enough.
This family have seven well grown youngsters. The cob already carries metal rings on both legs (BTO and either Dyers or Vintners from swan upping) and the pen remains un-ringed, being a particularly cautious individual.
We were pleased to get three of the young birds since birds become rather suspicious once the first has been caught, and colour ringed as part of the SE/East Anglia Swan project.
Cygnets provide good value data as it is possible to construct a
record of movements starting from their natal waterway.
Total: 3
Mute Swan - 3