Hi, this year we had a pair of mute swans who made our pond their home. They built their nest and it looked as though there were some eggs laid. 2 days ago, an intruding mute swan entered the pond and the males went about the business of fighting it out. Once the victor was determined (I couldn't make out if it was the mating male or the intruder, but I believe it was the mate), he went about the business of chasing the female all over the pond. She wouldn't let him near her. This went on for about an hour. When I went to check on them again, they were gone, and have not returned. My questions are, why wouldn't the female let the male near her? Why would they abandon the nest, especially if there were eggs, and will they return at all.
Thank You