Second brood

[Fiona Rigby]

Hi

the resident pair of Mute Swans at Queens PArk, Heywood, England build there nest on an Island in the middle of the lake. This year only 3 eggs hatched, and only one Cygnet remains six weeks later. Since about a week, the swans have rebuilt the nest and both have been sitting on it and acting like there are eggs on it. It is impossible to see into the nest due to it being on the island.

I have never heard of mute swans having a second brood whilst they have one cygnet alive and to care for.

Have you heard of this?

I am a bit worried about the cygnet when Mum is on the nest as dad goes off to chase the geese and leaves the Cygnet far away from the island. Also, when on the island the Cygnet sits in the dirt about 6 ft away from the nest. Why doesn’t it cuddle up to mum on the nest? It is cold and wet here despite it being supposed to be summer.

I look forward to your reply.

Kind Regards

Fiona Rigby

[Swan Expert]

Hi Fiona

They could be new parents and do not know how to take care of a cygnet or they know something is wrong and don’t want to take care of it. Then, they will try to lay more eggs.

Please call Wendy Hermon, Swan Support in Datchet. She may be able to send someine out to check on the family and the nest. The Regal Swan

[Swan Expert]

Hi Fiona

I just spoke to Wendy at Swan Support. She is waiting for your call if you want to speak directly tobher. Otherwise, can you please provide us with a phone number and email? Thanks

[Fiona Rigby]

Hi, thank you for your reply.

The Penn is a very experienced mother, she is 14 years old and has raised many successful Cygnets. I’ll give Wendy a ring.

Thank you so much.

Kind Regards

Fiona

[Author]

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