King Charles' swan census reveals decline in young swan population
- The annual Swan Upping census began Monday on the River Thames to evaluate the mute swan population's health.
- This tradition, which started in the 12th century, is crucial for monitoring challenges facing swans such as disease and pollution.
- The initial count of 16 young swans is a modest improvement compared to the significant decline of swan numbers in the previous two years.
In England, the annual Swan Upping, a census of swans owned by King Charles III, commenced on Monday along the River Thames, marking a tradition that dates back to the 12th century. This five-day event aims to assess the health of the mute swan population, with specially selected oarsmen known as Swan Uppers tasked with locating and monitoring the swans. The procedure involves surrounding families of swans, marking them, and checking for disease and injury, contributing valuable data to wildlife health assessments. David Barber has been leading this event for over 30 years and holds the title of King's Swan Marker. He is joined by a veterinarian and a team of oarsmen dressed in colors representing the monarchy and two medieval trade guilds that historically had ownership of some Thames swans. This year's census is particularly significant given the recent challenges faced by swan populations, including threats from avian flu, pollution, and other human-related issues. Last year, the census reported only 86 young swans, representing a staggering 45% decrease from the previous year’s numbers. During the first day of this year’s event, a modestly encouraging count of 16 young swans was recorded. The tradition now serves not only as a cultural event but also as an essential assessment tool for the current state of swan health across the country, indicating broader environmental concerns. The census proceeds from Sunbury, located on the outskirts of London, to Abingdon, covering approximately 80 miles over the five days. While swans have legal protection from hunting, the ongoing impacts of disease and environmental degradation threaten their existence, making this annual snapshot crucial for wildlife conservation efforts in Britain.