Animal activists in the UK say a swan has died of a “broken heart” after her unborn cygnets were killed when a group of teenagers destroyed their nest.
As per reports, the swan’s nest was located along the Manchester Canal in Bolton, England. It’s said a group of teenage boys were seen throwing rocks and bricks at the island where the bird had made her nest on May 20.
They succeeded in killing three of the six unborn cygnets. The other three survived, but their mother was deeply affected by the loss of her babies.
Wildlife activists in the area have been keeping a close eye on the nest since the incident. They say the male swan left two weeks ago and has not returned – it is possible he was driven away by stress.
In the weeks that followed, more of the eggs were lost, so that only one survived.
Then, early last week, the mother swan was found dead in her nest. Sam Woodrow, a wildlife activist, told the Manchester Evening News newspaper:
“There’s not much I can say really.
“She probably died of a broken heart as she had a partner for life and he was driven away by stress.”
Meanwhile, Facebook user Michael Mason wrote in the All About Bolton Facebook page:
“I really don’t want to do this post today because it comes with great sadness.
“I have tried to keep you updated on this swan who laid six eggs, three were destroyed by youths, she has then been harassed by dogs jumping in and harassed by a duck and moor hen and two more eggs were lost leaving her with one egg.
“Her mate left her on her own and sadly I was informed this morning she was found slumped in her nest dead. Just feel like crying as I have followed her progress for about 12 weeks.”
When asked about the swan’s death, he later added: “To be honest I think it was a broken heart.”
A spokesperson for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said:
“This is a really sad development and it is very upsetting to hear about the death of this poor swan.
“We are investigating the previous distressing incident and we would urge anyone with information to contact our appeals line on 0300 123 8018.
“Swans, their nests and their eggs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.”
What a truly devastating turn of events. My heart bleeds when I hear stories of such blatant animal cruelty.
Share this article to remind people to teach their children that all wildlife has a right to live without harassment from humans.
