Black Swan Relocated From Shakespeare’s Birthplace After Attacking Local Birds

Officials in Stratford-upon-Avon have moved an aggressive black swan to a waterfowl center after it attacked native mute swans. The Australian-native bird, initially nicknamed Reggie by locals, was later renamed Mr. Terminator by volunteer swan warden Cyril Bennis. “In the evening time, it had a different side to it,” Bennis told CBC News. “Listen, it was a nightmare. An absolute ruddy nightmare.” The swan would attack male birds and attempt to mate with females. “Violence, yes. Trying to drown them,” Bennis said. “Quite horrendous, really.” Town officials relocated the bird to the Dawlish Waterfowl Center in Devon, England, where it will live with other black swans. The move upset the swan’s fans, with Bennis saying people ask, “Why? Why? Why, sir? Why are you doing this?” He added, “Listen, I’ve learned my lesson with black swans.” (Story URL)