This is the heavyweight champion of swan safety. Under this act, all wild birds (including swans) are protected. Their eggs, their nests, their swampy little homes—all of it.
What does that mean for you? Simple: don’t mess with them. You cannot shoot, trap, poison, or even disturb a swan while it’s nesting. Disturbing a nest is a big no-no—like walking into someone’s house mid-shower and stealing their toast.
Breaking this rule? Fines up to £5,000 and maybe even jail time. That’s a steep price for trying to feed a swan a soggy chip.
And there’s more: the Wildlife Order in Scotland
Scotland has its own flair. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended for Scotland) adds extra layers. Swans there are still fully protected, but the penalties can be even stricter.
Basically, if you harm a swan north of the border, you’re in for a cold legal winter. Don’t do it.
All The King's Swans - Owen Deutsch Photography
