The Tweed River is home to a diverse range of breeding and overwintering birds however, the Tweed Estuary at Berwick-upon-Tweed is of national importance for mute swans whose numbers peak at around 800 individuals, the second largest swan colony in Britain!
Britain’s estuaries remain ice-free during the winter months and are one of the most fertile of all natural environments so it is no surprise that these graceful birds choose them as a winter residence.
Due to the rich feeding available, the Tweed Estuary is the ideal spot for swans during the annual moult where they will shed old feathers and replace them with new plumage. The moult takes roughly six weeks, after which many of the adult birds will return to their home waters.
It is possible that Berwick’s history with swans dates back to the medieval period when connections with royalty may have led to swans being farmed locally to provide food for banquets.
Nowadays, some 200 swans are permanent residents in the estuary so, whatever the season, you will be able to catch a glimpse of the brilliant white feathers of the mute swan gracefully navigating the river.
