Moulting Time

This is the time of year when moulting takes place on the river. Sue has now lost her main flight feathers and will be unable to fly for the next month, she and the cygnets will be totally reliant on Slim for protection. 

Slim will not moult until Sue regrows her new feathers. Nature has ensured that one of the adults will always be able to fly to protect the young cygnets.  

The male ducks also moult just now, leaving them vulnerable to predators, along with the ducklings. 

Dog owners should take extra care ensuring their dogs are under control along the riverside.