Ask the Swan Specialist

Aggressive male behaviour
By:Rebecca <rebecca_fiske@xtra.co.nz>
Date: 17 September 2012

Hi, we have a 4 year old male mute swan. He is not pinioned, but we trim his wing feathers annually to try to curb his aggression. He can fly away anytime he chooses when his wings are fully grown. Mute swans are a protected species here in New Zealand. He is our pet and lives on a lake beside our house. The lake is approx 2 hectares and he is the only swan. The problem is his aggressive behaviour not only towards us (we feed him every day!) but to all visitors and neighbours who venture into his territory. He puts his head down and charges he attacks with his wings and has caused much pain!! We love him to bits and need some advice on how to make him a little less of a problem. We have been his carers for the last 3 years. We would buy another mate for him if you think that would help. Otherwise what are our options. The neigbours have had enough, the paddocks all round the lake are farmed and have become danger zones to them. Many thanks.

Messages In This Thread

Aggressive male behaviour -- Rebecca -- 17 September 2012
Re: Aggressive male behaviour -- The Regal Swan -- 18 September 2012
Re: Aggressive male behaviour -- Rebecca -- 19 September 2012
Re: Aggressive male behaviour -- The Regal Swan -- 20 September 2012
Re: Aggressive male behaviour -- Rebecca -- 20 September 2012
Re: Aggressive male behaviour -- The Regal Swan -- 22 September 2012