Commuters at London’s Bishop’s Stortford station were unexpectedly delayed by more than 15 minutes when a swan found its way onto the train tracks, causing disruptions to the services. Luckily, after a brief 15-minute interval, the bird took flight, allowing regular train operations to resume. This incident, which occurred on January 30, is one of several instances where swans have impacted train services in the UK.
Swans hold a unique protected status in the UK, unlike other birds or animals. All unmarked swans in the country are considered property of the monarchy. Harming or taking a swan is treated as theft against the UK’s monarchy, leading both the general public and authorities to exercise caution and refrain from using force with these “royal” birds. Additionally, causing harm to a swan constitutes a wildlife-related offense.
Since the 12th century, the British Crown has claimed ownership of swans, originally to protect them from poachers. During the height of the monarchy, a decree restricted swan ownership to the affluent, who would identify their swans through small marks or nicks on their beaks. Any unmarked swan automatically became the property of the royal household. Currently, only the reigning monarch of the UK is permitted to consume swan, although it’s worth noting that swans are no longer part of banquets or culinary offerings. The UK monarch also holds the honorary title of “Seigneur of the Swans.”
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A video capturing the swan leisurely walking on the tracks at Bishop’s Stortford station, while onlookers watch helplessly, is gaining traction on social media.
Many internet users are criticizing the British for still adhering to outdated laws related to the monarchy.
Commenting on the video, one user wrote, “If it was a cow blocking the road in India, it would be considered the height of backwardness, although cows are moved to the other side of the road in India. But these Anglicized guys would still be yapping about it while being deadly silent when something like this happens in the UK. Lol. Stop your train because a SWAN can’t be touched. People who lecture India on superstitions are absent here.”
Another user wrote, “Boss: why are you late? Me: A duck stood in front of my train.”
“It’s a good ‘law’ that protects these silly birds because they’re a bit delicate and dumb. You shouldn’t go near a swan anyway, as they are aggressive and can injure you. Big fan of this law,” the third user wrote.
