King's Swan Upping on the Thames: Healthy cygnets but rising litter concerns
This week, the annual King's Swan Upping on the River Thames shows a promising number of healthy cygnets, but Chief Swan Marker David Barber warns about increasing litter, especially fishing tackle, which injures young swans.
Annual Swan Census on the Thames
From July 13 to 17, the traditional Swan Upping takes place on the River Thames, spanning from Sunbury Lock in Middlesex to Abingdon Bridge in Oxfordshire. Members of the Vintners' and Dyers' livery companies row traditional skiffs, catching cygnets, weighing and measuring them before releasing them back into the water near Windsor Castle.
Promising Count but Environmental Concerns
David Barber, who has served as King's Chief Swan Marker since 1993, described this year's count as encouraging. However, he expressed distress over the rising amount of litter in the river. Swan Uppers reported finding young swans injured by discarded fishing tackle and other rubbish.
Centuries-Old Tradition
The tradition dates back to the 12th century, when swans on the Thames were declared property of the Crown. Today, the birds are owned jointly by the King and the two livery companies. The event concludes with a traditional toast to the King at Windsor Castle.
