The Swan Upping

This year I was lucky enough to take part in the centuries-old tradition of the Swan Upping. This is a five-day journey up the Thames where a flotilla of traditional skiffs manned by Swan Uppers row 79 miles from Sunbury-on-Thames to Abingdon.

As a child, I remember hearing that widely-told fact "Did you know the Queen owns all the swans in the country". But this is not quite the case! In fact, the Crown holds the right to claim ownership of all 'unmarked' mute swans swimming in open waters across the UK. Historically, rights of ownership were granted by the monarchy to various individuals and organisations, as swans provided a valuable food for banquets. Today, only three organisations have retained their ownership rights. Abbotsbury Swannery own the swans that they mark at their site in Dorset (where I have used data for some of my research), and two London livery companies (the Vintners and the Dyers) own those which they mark on the Thames - which is where the Swan Upping comes in!

Previously, swans would have been claimed by physically marking the top of their beaks, but these days they are marked with metal leg rings that are widely-used in avian research. During the Swan Upping, every third swan found along the route is ringed and claimed by either the Crown, the Vintners, or the Dyers. However, the method of marking birds is not the only thing that has changed. While swans used to be claimed for food, they are now a protected species and are no longer eaten. The primary aim of the modern day Swan Upping is that of conservation and education. 

Conservation is essential for the swan population on the River Thames, as boat activity, fishing, and riverbank construction has disrupted their natural habitat. Additionally, predation by non-native species such as mink, and injuries from discarded fishing tackle, pose significant threats to swans. The King’s Swan Marker works closely with swan rescue groups to protect swans on the river, helping to ensure the population's survival. The annual Swan Upping also provides a valuable opportunity to collect data on how the population is fluctuating over time with changes in land-use, while also tracking how other bird populations (such as geese, ducks and grebes) are changing.

Education also plays a large role in the Swan Upping. Children from local schools visit the Swan Uppers along the banks of the River Thames, gaining the opportunity to learn about swan biology and the habitats they need. These children also get the opportunity to see cygnets up close, which is always inspiring!