One half of a pair of rare black swans seems to have disappeared from a Donegal lake.
The ‘couple’ (main pic) has called Inch Wildfowl Reserve their home since the early 2010.
However, it seems just one survives today with its mate not seen since late last summer.
The pair had raised several broods of cygnets over their time on the lake, according to the Tide and Pines Instagram account.
The remaining swan cut a lonely figure on Inch Wildfowl Reserve this week. Pic: Stephen Blair @tide_and_pines Instagram.
“Of course, the other one could have moved off but they do mate for life. Also, given how long they’ve been on Inch Lake, they would be nearing their life expectancy in the wild for sure,” said local man, Stephen Blair of ‘Tide and Pines’.
Originally from Australia, the black swan is generally uncommon in Ireland and most individuals originate from escapees of private collectors.
Main pic: Stephen Blair @tide_and_pines Instagram.