Two cygnets die after heartbroken swan at Fort Brockhurst ceases to care for them following devastating loss of mate
Two cygnets have died after their grieving mother abandoned them following the heartbreaking death of her mate.
Bird Flu has been ruled out by English Heritage, which runs Fort Brockhurst in Gosport, following the demise of three wild swans who have ‘graced the moat’ for years.
It is believed the adult male swan died of old age, prompting his mate to ‘retreat’ into the reeds and relinquish her duties of care for her cygnets, who have consequently died.
Amid concerns from members of the public, English Heritage has been working alongside the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the council and a swan sanctuary to rule out any disease-related causes.
Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a disease caused by the flu which mainly affects birds, predominantly wild aquatic birds, with the closest confirmed case being in Chichester at the start of the month.
A spokesperson for the English Heritage said: “We are saddened to confirm the loss of the adult male swan and two cygnets at Fort Brockhurst.
“Relevant authorities have attended the site and confirmed that there is no indication of avian influenza (bird flu) at this time.
“Following the male’s death, likely of old age, we believe the adult female retreated into the reeds and, heartbreakingly, ceased caring for the remaining cygnets, which we now understand have also since died.
“Swans are known to form lifelong bonds, and it is believed the female’s behaviour may have been a response to the loss of her mate. These wild swans have graced the Fort Brockhurst moat for many years, and their passing is felt deeply by all of us.”
English Heritage also manages Portchester Castle, Royal Garrison Church and Titchfield Abbey.