Ask the Swan Specialist

Re: Swans vs. Golfers
By:The Regal Swan
Date: 13 March 2009
In Response To: Swans vs. Golfers (joanne alexander-horne)

Hi Joanne:

Yes, chasing anyone or anything at this time is normal behavior. 300 feet of clearance is a good start. Where is the swan's nest or territory in location to the golfers? If the nesting site is along the fairway, you can pen the male and female swans until the cygnets hatch and can be safely taken by the parents to and from the pond. You will need to provide a clean water supply for swimming and drinking in the pen. The pen also needs to be clear from the line of fire or errant golf shots.

If this is not possible, try to find another safe area on the course or in the community (safe from predators (animals and kids)and build a temporary pen with nesting area (hay), water and food. If you can find someone's home that has access to a pond or lake and the person will allow you to erect the pen in their yard, life is good! This will provide a safe environment in which people will know that someone is always watching the area. Once nesting season is over and as long as no one approaches too close to the cygnets and the parents, most of the chasing will cease. Good Luck. The Regal Swan

Messages In This Thread

Swans vs. Golfers -- joanne alexander-horne -- 12 March 2009
Re: Swans vs. Golfers -- The Regal Swan -- 13 March 2009