“I really don’t want to do this post today because it comes with great sadness,” Mason wrote. “I have tried to keep you updated on this Swan who laid six eggs.”
Vandals destroyed three of the swan's eggs. In addition to this, the unfortunate swan faced challenges from local dogs, a moorhen, and a duck, resulting in the loss of two more eggs.
Left with a single egg and no mate, the mother swan's plight ended tragically. She was ultimately found lifeless in her nest, a sorrowful conclusion to her story.
“Just feel like crying as I have followed her progress for about 12 weeks,” Mason added.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals carried out an investigation into the unfortunate demise of a swan.
Swan whose nest was smashed up by vandals with bricks 'dies from a broken heart'https://t.co/s5fpZujJ5D
— Manchester News MEN (@MENnewsdesk) June 20, 2020
“This is a really sad development and it is very upsetting to hear about the death of this poor swan. We are investigating the previous distressing incident and we would urge anyone with information to contact our appeals line on 0300 123 8018. Swans, their nests and their eggs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.”
The event has garnered the interest of both wildlife activists and local residents.
“There’s not much I can say really,” Sam Woodrow, a wildlife activist, said of the poor swan. “She probably died of a broken heart as she had a partner for life and he was driven away by stress.”
Swan 'dies from a broken heart' after teenagers destroy nest and eggs https://t.co/k6Lh5LimYH
— Republic (@republic) June 22, 2020
Experts at Swan Lifeline, a rescue center for swans, have observed similar cases. Swans may succumb to a broken heart upon losing their partner, and it's important to remember that swans typically mate for life.
In a related incident earlier this summer, on June 8, an elderly individual was jogging in Richmond Park in southwest London. While jogging is a common park activity, this individual unfortunately kicked a young cygnet.
Police hunt jogger who kicked cygnet out of his way in Richmond Park https://t.co/s4RFVCAQEQ
— clare harrod (@ClareHarrod) June 10, 2020
The Metropolitan Police have launched an investigation into the incident. Officers suspect that the individual caused brain damage to the bird. The cygnet received care at a sanctuary in Shepperton, Surrey, but tragically, it passed away two days after its arrival.
Witnesses reported that the bird was kicked by a balding white male, around 60 years old and approximately 5'6" tall. He was described as wearing black running shorts, a vest, and a running top with a logo. The man also attempted to kick another cygnet, which fortunately was able to escape by flying away.
“Sadly the cygnet died this afternoon, his injuries were too severe,” Royal Parks Police said. “The suspect was seen to kick another cygnet, which thankfully managed to escape to the water.”
Sources:
www.cambridge-news.co.uk
