The individual personalities of the swans and their age will be major factors in whether they will accept the new pair of swans. If the existing swans are rather young, 1-2 years of age, they may be much more receptive to new guests than an established pair of 3 or more years of age.

If you want to try to introduce new swans, you must have a fully enclosed pen (1/2 on land and 1/2 in water with feeder inside). The pen has to be fully enclosed to prevent predation and allow the new swans to introduce themselves to the resident swans to observe any signs of aggression. If signs of aggression are readily apparent and do not subside within 2 weeks, then the new swans need to be found a new home.

Another idea, but still may or may not work is to get a pair of swans of a different species than you currently maintain. Black Swans can be aggressive, but we have seen some pairs that negate the concept of being the most aggressive species. In some cases, the Black Swans can be very docile in the right habitat and with the right owner. Different species may get along better than having the same species as there will not be an interbreeding issue among the swans.

In California, new rules have been established about the introduction of mute swans or other non-native species which may require a permit. We do believe that you are doing the right thing by having the same gender so that you do not have the concern regarding cygnets and their eventual care and need for future placement to another home. The Regal Swan