We are so sorry to hear about the mom swan. The cygnet should still be able to survive as its dad will look after it. Yes, swans usually are ready to go out on their own at approximately 6 months of age because the parents will have taught it how to elude and recognize predators as well as be a swan. The size of the cygnet at that age will almost be the size of an adult swan which will limit the types of predators, i.e., large fish, egrets, herons, etc.

Do you know what may have happened to the mother? If it was a predator or illness, then these causes could significantly reduce the survival rate as predators are likely to return. If the cygnet stays near the dad and in the water at night away from the bank, then his chances increase. If this was an illness, then the chances decrease if the cygnet was infected. As you can see, there are many variables associated with this scenario. We hope this information is of benefit. The Regal Swan