Swan aggressive to other swan in captivity

[Carly]

Hi. I don’t know much about swans but have always been fond of them. I live in Chicago & don’t get an opportunity to see swans often. The other day I was driving by a cemetery where two swans were in an enclosed area with a pond. I stopped to see them. One of the swans stayed in the corner while the other one swam. Then the one who was swimming got out of the pond & approached the other & proceeded to bite it’s neck & pluck out it’s feathers. The one being attacked was trying to escape. It was very sad & I don’t understand what was happening or if there is anything I can/should do about it.

[Swan Expert]

Hi Carly

Just like humans, swan pairs get into little spats at times. Usually, these minor scuffles don’t last for long. However, if something else is occurring such as a disturbance in an area, i.e. landscaping, presence of predator, etc., the swans could start acting out against each other. What is the name of the cemetary? We may be able to contact someone to check up on the swans. Thanks for your concern. The Regal Swan

[Carly]

Thank you for responding! It seemed like this was a common occurrence as the attacked swan was hiding in the corner facing the fence the whole time & there were feathers all over the grass, I’m guessing from previous attacks. The name of the cemetery was Woodlawn Memorial Park in Joliet, Illinois. I hope you can help. It was very sad & disturbing. I have video of the attack if that would be helpful. The attacked swan seemed to be trying to escape & climb the fence. She is smaller than the other swan & wand missing a lot of feathers.

[Swan Expert]

Hi Carly

We’ll try to get someone to check this out. Thanks. The Regal Swan

[Swan Expert]

Hi Carly

We contacted someone familiar with the 2 swans at the park. Yes, they saw the scuffle, but have stated both swans have settled down and all is well. They will continue to monitor the swans. Again, thanks so much for your concern and care for the swans. If we can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. The Regal Swan

[Carly]

Thank you so much!

[Swan Expert]

You are very welcome. The Regal Swan

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