Swans are the most protected and culturally significant birds in the U.K., according to MK Swan Rescue.
Traditionally, swans are "owned by the king" but are treated like the wild animals they are, free to roam as they please, but well-regarded by the public.
Due to their historical and societal significance, the rehabilitation and release of five infant swans, known as cygnets, was an exciting and heartwarming feat for U.K. residents.
According to the BBC, eleven swan eggs were collected and raised at Cuan Wildlife Rescue in Much Wenlock after the deaths of a pair of mating swans.
From the eleven eggs, six cygnets hatched, and five survived. Each of the five survivors grew to be "massive" and was released to a private pool to be monitored.
The babies are free to leave as soon as they feel ready, whether to venture on their own or to find a mate and establish a new territory.
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In the U.K., it is a criminal offense to kill or injure a swan, capture a swan, steal eggs, or damage a nest, MK Swan Rescue's website says.
No criminal action had to be taken upon the deaths of the parent swans, as it was determined they were killed by another animal, the BBC reported.
This death was a natural one; still, the rehabilitation efforts of the Cuan Wildlife were necessary for the babies' survival. Orphaned birds are at risk of early death, but they are pivotal to their ecosystems.
According to Swan Life, Mute Swans eat plant matter and spread seeds through the ecosystem via their feces, ensuring plant growth. When eating plants, swans reduce plant crowding, which allows for water and nutrients to flow efficiently, keeping carbon dioxide and oxygen levels in check.
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Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Definitely 👍 The consequences of the swan diet benefit their entire ecosystem, which in turn benefits humans. A biodiverse ecosystem protects food and medicine sources for people.
So, it is not only history and culture that provide reasons to protect swans in the U.K., but the well-being of the environment, as well.
Because of this, people helped Cuan Wildlife workers raise funds and spread awareness to support the five cygnets.
"Thank you all for your support and kind words regarding these cygnets," the Cuan Wildlife posted on Facebook. "All of you helped to make this happen and for us to bring a positive story from a sad situation."
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