Description
A waddle of another kind, our famous Worcester swans.
In the early 80s a stretch of the River Severn in the heart of the city was set aside for our wonderful mute swans. The history of our iconic swans goes much further back with records citing them here as long ago as the medieval period.
Today the Swan Sanctuary (the stretch of water) and The Swan Food Project protect and care take our faithful birds.
Audio read by: Phillip Stoneman from BBC Hereford and Worcester
Brought to you by
Artist
Janine Smith
A surface pattern and textile designer by day, Janine started her own children’s clothing business, Pikolo, during maternity leave with her first child. She works mainly in vectors and graphic design, in animals, insects, natural elements and usually bold colours. Her style is ever-evolving and, as a surface pattern designer, the designs can be scaled to the projects. She is also looking to get back to traditional practices such as screen and lino print.
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Location
27. Bromwich Parade – Swan Sanctuary
Worcester Swan Sanctuary follows a stretch of the River Severn within Riverside Park between the Cathedral and the railway viaduct. Cygnets arrive each autumn and winter after leaving their parents’ territories. They grow up for several years before moving on as they find a partner and their own territory.
There are also elderly and disabled swans, adults returning to find a new partner and in winter, hungry swans from the countryside.
There is not much natural food in the Severn so your help with feeding the swans a healthy diet is appreciated. Top tips for better feeding of swans and a list of swan food outlets in Worcester can be found at: www.theswanfoodproject.co.uk
Take home your own feathered friend
In October 2024 all 40 large penguins and one chick will be auctioned to raise funds for the care provided by St Richard’s Hospice.
In 2021, 31 stunning elephant sculptures raised a mammoth £368,800 to support the care provided by St Richard’s Hospice across Worcestershire.
Find out more