The Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

                              The mute swan

Mute Swans are the UK's most common species of swan and are one of the world's heaviest flying birds; with powerful wings that can measure approximately 4 feet in length. They are incredibly loyal birds and often remain with the same partner for life, which can be up to 30 years in the wild. The swan is predominately a gentle being, but they do have a feisty edge that they will display if they feel threatened. Just like elephants they never forget, their memories are outstanding so bear that in mind when visiting the same area often! National Geographic states they can reach top speeds of 22 mph. 

Males are known as Cobs, and females are known as Pens. It is quite difficult to tell them apart due to such minor differences, but males tend to be larger. Both genders of mute swan display black knobs on their bill, and the males basal knob swells during mating season so identifying could be slightly easier around April-May. 

Swans have long been seen as a valuable asset, with the UK's monarchy having rights to most Mute Swans in England and Wales. They are a protected species as instructed by the monarch, and the only people historically that have been able to eat unmarked swan, or 'Le Cygne Saint Jean', are Royal family members, or fellows of St Johns College, Cambridge. Royal Swans are no longer marked so all swans are protected and are, of course, no longer eaten.

Image of a menu from the May Ball (1921), kindly sent to me from St Johns College, Cambridge.

Swans are one of the most iconic waterbirds, known to be a symbol of love, beauty, grace and purity.  The image of two swans kissing to form a heart with their necks is one of the most famous symbols of love. In Norse mythology, it is said that two swans drank water from a sacred well at the home of the gods, and the water was so pure that everything it touched turned white; giving all swans thereon after their white colour. The Celtic legend states that two swans steered a sun-boat around heaven, there are many beautiful legends and stories associated with swans.