This situation could be caused by any number of predators. It is highly unlikely that an owl, eagle, hawk would go after a large swan, a cygnet maybe, but not an adult. The Regal Swan's Predation Specialist, Tim Williams from Gatorland asked that we get more information from you:

1. How many swans have been involved?

2. Were the swans cygnets or adults?

3. Were there any other body traumas/injuries?

4. Were any body parts eaten or dragged from the area?

5. Were the swans found in the water or on land?

6. Were all the dead swans found in the same area?

7. What type of terrain (large or small pond), woodland

area nearby, etc.?

We need further information, because as stated any number of predators could be involved including: coyote, fox, bobcat, cougar, a weasel type animal, snapping turtle (especially if the swans were attacked while their heads were under water eating), domestic dogs or cats and unfortunately humans. There are hunting weapons that cause decapitation in turkeys, so this could also be a deliberate attempt to kill the swans by a less than perfect human being.

The Regal Swan