Wild Wednesday – Mute swan
One of our most iconic waterbirds, the mute swan, scientific name Cygnus olor, is famed for its grace and beauty. Often seen gliding effortlessly across our lakes and rivers all year round. It's also considered the most romantic of the bird world, because pairs famously form a perfect heart shape with their curved necks.
New life at Mewsbrook Park, Littlehampton
If you've taken a recent stroll through the park, you may have spotted some extra special residents gliding across the lake - a new brood of fluffy cygnets (baby swans). Their arrival is a lovely reminder that spring and early summer are among the most magical times for wildlife across the Arun district.
The appearance of cygnets at Mewsbrook Park is always a highlight for visitors and residents alike. These tiny grey bundles, often seen closely shepherded by their parents, can number anywhere from a few to a dozen in a single brood.
Swan parents are famously attentive - both mum (pen) and dad (cob) share parenting duties, keeping their young safe and guiding them as they learn to swim, feed, and explore their surroundings. If you visit, you'll likely see the cygnets tucked safely between their parents or hitching a ride on an adult's back.
Please admire from a distance - swans are highly protective, especially during breeding season.
Swan species in Arun
Across the Arun district, the most common swans you'll see are Mute swans. Despite their name, they aren't silent - but they are quieter than their relatives, communicating through soft grunts and hisses.
Look out for their distinctive features:
- bright white plumage
- orange beak with a black knob at the base
- a graceful, curved neck, often held in a distinctive “S” shape
Where to see them locally:
- the River Arun
- coastal lagoons and lakes
- Arundel Wetland Centre (WWT): Nesting oystercatchers, swan cygnets growing and black-headed gull colony | WWT Arundel
- parks like Mewsbrook and Hotham Park in Bognor Regis
A symbol of Heritage
Swans hold a unique place in British culture. Historically, Mute swans on open waters are considered the property of the Monarch, though in practice they are cared for and protected by conservation groups.
In Arun, their presence reflects the health of our waterways. Swans thrive in clean, well-managed habitats rich in aquatic plants - making them an important indicator species for the local environment.
What do they eat?
Swans are primarily herbivores, feeding on:
- water plants and algae
- grass along riverbanks and parks
- occasionally small aquatic creatures
While it's tempting to feed them, bread isn't the best choice. Instead, if you do feed swans, opt for:
- leafy greens (lettuce, spinach)
- frozen peas or sweetcorn (defrosted)
- specialised bird food
Sharing space with wildlife
Swans may look serene, but they are large, strong birds (with wingspans up to 2.4 metres) and can be defensive if they feel threatened.
Please remember:
- keep dogs under control around water
- give nesting swans plenty of space
- avoid getting too close for photos
Why cygnets matter
Those adorable cygnets at Mewsbrook aren't just a seasonal delight - they represent the future of local wildlife. Survival rates can vary, so each brood is important for maintaining the population.
Watching them grow is a wonderful way to connect with nature right on our doorstep and a gentle reminder of the role we all play in protecting Arun's natural spaces.
Read more: Mute swan | The Wildlife Trusts