There are several reasons that the swan was near the road.

1. It may have been hit by a car. If this is the case, and you find the bird again in the same position this morning, you should call a local wildlife rehabilitator or the police to see if someone can help the bird.

2. Is there a nearby lake or pond? If so, sometimes the birds will graze in areas along roadways because of the grasses and other vegetation. This proximity to a roadway also facilitates their being hit by a vehicle.

3. If the road was icy or rain had been falling, swans often mistake the wet asphalt as a waterway and crash land. Obviously, they get hurt in the process and can be killed. Hopefully, the swan is okay this morning. The Regal Swan