How to attract Swans to your local river

10th December, 2023

Attracting swans to your river can be a rewarding experience. Here are a few steps to help you attract swans:

1. Provide the right environment: Swans are waterfowl and prefer calm, shallow waters with ample vegetation. Ensure that your river has suitable habitat with a slow current or still water and a variety of aquatic plants for swans to feed on.

2. Create a nesting area: Swans typically build their nests near water bodies. Construct a floating platform or an elevated structure near the water's edge to provide a safe and suitable nesting area for the swans. Make sure it's large and sturdy enough to support their size.

3. Offer food: Swans are herbivores and feed on aquatic plants, grasses, and grains. If your river lacks natural vegetation, consider planting or introducing native aquatic plants to provide ample food sources. You can also supplement their diet with grains like corn or wheat, but do so sparingly to avoid dependency on human-provided food.

4. Provide shelter: Swans need shelter to feel secure and protected. Create hiding spots such as overhanging trees, such as willows or shrubs near the water, or install a floating island or artificial structure that can serve as a refuge for the swans.

5. Minimise disturbances: Swans are sensitive to disturbances and may be hesitant to approach if they feel threatened. Avoid excessive noise, disturbances, or approaching them too closely. Give them time to become comfortable with their surroundings and the presence of humans. Consider installing a stretch of basic picket fencing along part of the river to protect some shrubbery from dogs that are off their leads exploring the riverbank. This will give a place of safety for the swans.

6. Be patient: Attracting swans to your river may take time. They may need to find your river on their own or discover that it meets their requirements. Be patient, continue providing a suitable environment, and let them come to the river naturally.

Remember, it's important to respect swans' natural behaviour and avoid interfering with their nests or daily routines.