The swans may be a lot older than 10 years. The female bird could have been killed by a predator, ill or just died from old age. Usually, swans can live up to 30 years with good care. However, in the wild, 10-15 years may be the norm.

Another possibility, is that the original pair that you have seen are no longer in your area. Younger and stronger birds will and can chase older pairs from their existing territory. Usually, there is a big fight and someone may end up seriously injured or killed, but there is also a possibility that the older males know when their time is up to relinquish territory.

Swans may or may not grieve. They may or may not re-mate. A male swan will usually go about his business without ever re-mating again. A female will usually re-mate. Again, this is totally up to the individual swan, the swan species and the availability of another compatible mate. Usually, swans mate for life, but the above reasons determine if this actually occurs.

If the male needs to build a nest, he will pull at various grasses and reeds. Whether he has a mate to encourage this building is another matter. But, if this swan is Tycho, he will do well by himself and he will determine if he wants to re-mate.

You can contact us at (Bolin.S[at]att.net for an interview. The Regal Swan