Swan Upping Census Reveals Ongoing Cygnet Decline

The annual Swan Upping census, a tradition dating to the 12th century, has begun along the River Thames from Sunbury Lock to Abingdon Bridge. Led by the King's Swan Marker David Barber, teams inspect, measure, and ring young cygnets to monitor their health and numbers. The swan population has seen a 45% decline in cygnets over the past two years, with only 86 recorded last year, mostly due to avian flu outbreaks. However, a recent decrease in bird flu cases and calmer river conditions offer hope for recovery. Ownership of the Thames swans is shared between the Crown and two historic London trade guilds. Results from the census are compiled in an annual report to guide conservation efforts.