Swans or other animals probably do not grieve in the same manner as humans. Birds and animals are ingrained to build nests or dens, lay eggs or produce and raise young. Although the swans are both females, this same natural behavior makes them nest and produce eggs even though there is no chance that the eggs will produce viable young.

This natural behavior does not usually lead to any grief or other related depressive behavior because it would be to the detriment of a species. Animals and birds do not have the luxury to grieve for long periods of time such as humans. Birds and animals must move on, continue to forage, hunt, eat, avoid and escape predators and produce more young. Depression and grief would significantly limit the ability of birds and animals to continue their normal daily life activities and protect themselves. The Regal Swan