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Mute Swan Census

Species/Populations
Mute Swan

History
First census carried out in 1955/56. Further surveys have been conducted in 1978, 1983, 1990 and 2002.

Aims
To estimate population size, distribution and habitat use during the breeding season.

Coverage
Great Britain

Frequency
Irregular, ranging between 3-12 yearly.

Methods
The most recent census adopted a random stratified sampling method. Observers visited a set of randomly selected 10 km squares, surveying all habitats within each square usually during a single visit between 1 April and 31 May. On locating pairs of swans, signs of breeding were recorded by the presence of nests or cygnets. For non-breeding birds, the size of the flock was recorded.

Results
Please see latest results for Mute Swan.

References and reports can be found on the Reports and Newsletters page.

Getting involved
A date for the next census has not been agreed at present. Further details will be announced here when they become available.

Partner organisations
British Trust for Ornithology
Scottish Ornithologists Club
Swan Study Group

WWT home | JNCC home

The Goose & Swan Monitoring Programme (GSMP) monitors numbers and breeding success of geese and swans in the UK during the non-breeding season. GSMP is organised by WWT on behalf of WWT and JNCC.

Email: monitoring@wwt.org.uk

Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust
Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT
T: +44 (0) 1453 891900 E: enquiries@wwt.org.uk
Registered Charity no. 1030884