Black Swan “Mr. Terminator” Relocated for Disturbing Local Birds

A striking black swan, affectionately known as “Mr. Terminator, ”has been removed from Stratford-Upon-Avon after displaying aggressive behavior towards the town’s beloved mute swans.

This unique bird had captivated local residents since it first appeared on the River Avon around nine months ago. Swan warden Cyril Bennis, with an impressive 45 years of volunteering experience in Stratford, shared with The Independent the exhilaration that initially accompanied the arrival of this rare species.“He was so regal in many respects, ”Bennis remarked, noting that visitors flocked to see Mr. Terminator, who quickly outshone even the town’s famous figure, William Shakespeare.

However, the excitement surrounding Mr. Terminator’s presence turned into alarm when he started displaying aggression towards the town’s population of roughly 60 mute swans. Bennis reported that the black swan began to assert dominance over a local breeding pair, even attempting to drown their cygnet during disputes over territory. This alarming behavior raised concerns over potential injuries and the risk of cross-breeding with the protected mute swans.

Mr. Terminator being evicted from Stratford-Upon-Avon

Mr. Terminator: The Eviction from Stratford-Upon-Avon

Faced with a challenging decision, Bennis expressed that he felt “damned if I did and damned if I didn’t, ” ultimately concluding that Mr. Terminator needed to be relocated. Capturing the bird proved to be a formidable task, leaving Bennis with a “sore chest”from the exertion. Fortunately, the black swan was safely apprehended and will now find a new home at the Dawlish Waterfowl Centre in Devon.

Following the removal of Mr. Terminator, tranquility has returned to the River Avon.“Today the river is quiet and the mute swans are just relaxing, ” Bennis commented, likening the scene to a calm moment straight out of a Shakespearean play.

It is noteworthy that black swans are native to Australia and are seldom spotted in the UK, where mute swans hold significant historical and cultural value, particularly in Stratford-Upon-Avon.

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