Leeds Castle is home to a diverse and fascinating array of swans, including the renowned Pickles the Whooper Swan and a flock of stunning Black Swans. These birds are not only a delight to visitors but also play a vital role in the castle’s rich history and conservation efforts.
Pickles the Whooper Swan: The Oldest Resident at Leeds Castle
Pickles, a Whooper Swan, is the oldest resident at Leeds Castle, and possibly the oldest swan in the UK. At an impressive 30 years of age, Pickles has become a beloved figure among visitors and castle staff alike.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | Whooper Swan |
| Age | 30 years old |
| Size | Up to 160cm in length and 11kg in weight |
| Migration | Migrates around 1400km from Iceland to Britain |
| Lifespan | Typically 10 years in the wild, but can live into their late 20s in captivity |
| Special Care | Due to his advanced age, Pickles is treated with extra care and has his own dedicated food and water buckets. |
The Captivating Black Swan Flock
In addition to the iconic Pickles, Leeds Castle is also home to a flock of stunning Black Swans. These majestic birds, native to South Eastern and South Western Australia, have found a new home at the castle, delighting visitors with their striking appearance and unique behaviors.
Black Swan Characteristics
- Origin: Native to South Eastern and South Western Australia, but abundant in Europe
- Diet: In the wild, they feed on aquatic and marshland plants, while at Leeds Castle, they are fed specific swan and waterfowl food
- Breeding: Black Swans can breed all year round, with an average of 4-8 cygnets per clutch. Incubation lasts around 35-40 days, and both parents incubate the eggs.
- Monogamy: Black Swans are monogamous, with a divorce rate of around 6-7%
- Size and Sex Differences: Males (Cobs) are larger with longer necks and straighter bills, while females (Pens) are slightly smaller
Avian Influenza and Conservation Efforts
The Leeds Castle Black Swan flock has faced challenges in recent years due to outbreaks of avian influenza. During these periods, all captive birds, including the Black Swans, were penned for an extended period, leading to the death of the previous flock.
In response, a fundraising campaign was launched to acquire a new flock of Black Swans, with donations going towards the cost of purchasing cygnets and supporting the welfare and care of all birds on the estate. This conservation effort has been crucial in ensuring the continued presence of these magnificent birds at Leeds Castle.
Visitor Experiences
Visitors to Leeds Castle can enjoy a unique experience with the swans through the Black Swan Ferry Boat. This ferry operates across the Great Water, connecting the Boathouse Cafe to the maze and play areas. The ferry runs daily from 10am to 5pm from April to September and on weekends and school holidays in October, providing visitors with the opportunity to get up close and personal with the castle’s feathered residents.
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (each way) | £1.50 |
| Children (each way) | £1 |
| Under 3s | FREE |
The Leeds Castle swans, both Pickles the Whooper Swan and the Black Swan flock, are a true highlight for visitors to the castle. These birds not only add to the enchanting atmosphere of the estate but also play a vital role in the castle’s rich history and conservation efforts. Whether you’re a castle enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of these majestic creatures, a visit to Leeds Castle is sure to leave you captivated by the wonders of its swans.
References
- https://leeds-castle.com/news/is-leeds-castle-home-to-the-oldest-living-swan-in-the-uk/
- https://leeds-castle.com/news/pickles-the-leeds-castle-swan-turns-30/
- https://leeds-castle.com/news/black-swans-have-returned-to-leeds-castle/
- https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-bring-black-swans-back-to-leeds-castle
- https://leeds-castle.com/attraction/black-swan-ferry/