We would never be glad that a swan or any wildlife dies. Swans are beautiful and elegant creatures and swan conservation efforts should always be of utmost concern.

The bird was drowning and was probably too weak to keep its head above water or make it to shore. Has the pond dried due to drought? If so this could be indicative of Botulism poisoning which means unfortunately that many other waterfowl can die. If you see this again you should contact the local authorities as thousands can die.

Was there any visible trauma to the swan? Is there hunting in the area? It may have been shot. Could it have been beaten? Is fishing allowed? If so it may have been entangled in fishing line which would pull the swan from below the pond's surface.

If none of the above, then the bird may have died of old age or illness. Yes the other swans will respond to another swan in distress. We have even seen other swans jump on a sick
or injured swan and beat it to put it out of its misery. We hope this info helps. The Regal Swan