Swans moved after attacks by children in a Glasgow park left some birds dead

One cygnet was found dead and three others went missing feared dead, from Springburn Park

Countryside Rangers Alexandra Jackson (left) and Allison Greig are pictured with the swans as they were being moved.
Author: Stephanie AllisonPublished 5th Sep 2024
Last updated 5th Sep 2024

Stone-throwing children targeting swans in a Glasgow park have forced council staff to move the remaining birds to safety.

Two adult swans and a cygnet were moved to a safe location today (Sept 5th) by Glasgow City Council’s Countryside Rangers.

Staff rescued the birds after one cygnet was found dead and three others went missing feared dead.

The remaining cygnet is also under-weight.

READ MORE: Twelve swans die of suspected bird flu in Glasgow park.

Concerns for the safety of the birds were fuelled by reports of children throwing stones at them on a number of occasions in recent weeks.

A council spokeswoman said: “Our Countryside Rangers have been forced to move three swans to safety from the pond in Springburn Park following appalling attacks by children throwing stones.

One cygnet was found dead and another malnourished.

“Two adult birds and a cygnet were moved today (Sept 5th) after one young bird was found dead and another three others went missing feared dead.

“We would not normally disturb wild birds by moving them, but felt we had no choice on this occasion.

“This type of animal cruelty is shocking and members of the public are asked to report wildlife crimes to the police by dialling 101.”

The birds will be monitored daily in their new location and the police have been informed of the stone throwing incidents.

Thanks to Springburn’s “swan aunties” (volunteers who keep an eye on the park’s swans) for assisting with the move.

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