Swans

Last weekend at Baron's Haugh two Mute swans were busy building a nest. This weekend they had it finished and one of the swans was sitting in the nest briefly before taking to the water for a swim. Mute swans usually breed successfully in the Haugh and hopefully this year will see some cygnets. 

Mute swans are resident birds in the UK but Whooper swans migrate to Iceland during the summer months to take advantage of the long summer days.

Injured Whooper Swans

However, there are three Whooper swans remaining at Baron's Haugh with injured wings. They have been unable to undertake the journey northwards. By April, all Whooper swams should have left for Iceland and it will be interesting to see how long these swans remain in Motherwell. 

Injured Whooper Swans

 The Whooper swans were seen last weekend swimming quite happily in the River Clyde so they can at least hunt for food.

Injured Whooper Swans Swimming in River Clyde

The weather has been very cold so far and the breeding is behind what it should be for this time of the year. Hopefully everything goes well for all the birds in the Haugh.

Further Information:

Location: Baron's Haugh is in Motherwell, North Lanarkshire.
Grid reference: NS756553