King’s Swan Upping on the Thames shows healthy cygnets but rising litter

On Monday, 13 July 2026, the annual Swan Upping ceremony on the River Thames took place in Staines, England, marking the start of a five-day survey of the mute swan population. Traditional wooden skiffs, manned by members of the Vintners' and Dyers' livery companies, navigated the river from Sunbury Lock in Middlesex to Abingdon Bridge in Oxfordshire. During the event, cygnets, baby swans, were captured, weighed, measured, and assessed for health before being returned to the water under the supervision of King Charles' Chief Swan Marker, David Barber. This year's Swan Upping saw a positive trend in the number of swans, according to Barber, who has held the position since 1993. The ritual, which dates back to the 12th century, involves the Crown and the two livery companies claiming ownership of all mute swans within the Thames. The survey helps monitor the population and ensure their well-being. The event culminated in a traditional toast to the King at Windsor Castle, a longstanding custom during the final day of the census. During the survey, officials noted that while the swan population remained robust, concerns were raised over increasing levels of pollution and litter in the river. Barber expressed distress at finding young swans entangled in discarded fishing gear and other debris. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges faced by wildlife in urban waterways. The presence of such hazards poses a direct threat to the survival of cygnets, particularly during their early stages of life. The Swan Upping process is more than just a census, it serves as a vital tool for conservation efforts. Each year, data collected during the survey informs policies aimed at protecting the swan population and improving water quality. This year's findings will likely contribute to discussions on how to better manage waste disposal and reduce human impact on the Thames ecosystem. The event also underscores the cultural significance of the swan in British history and its symbolic connection to royalty. For centuries, the mute swan has been associated with the monarchy, with the Crown holding legal ownership of all swans on the Thames. This tradition, though largely symbolic today, continues to play a role in the ceremonial aspects of the Swan Upping. David Barber, who has overseen the survey for nearly three decades, emphasized the importance of maintaining the balance between tradition and modern environmental stewardship. His comments reflect a broader concern among conservationists about the growing threats posed by litter and industrial runoff. While the swan population appears stable, the increasing presence of pollutants suggests that continued vigilance is necessary to preserve the river's ecological integrity. As the Swan Upping concludes, attention turns to future steps aimed at addressing the issues identified during the survey. Local authorities and environmental groups are expected to collaborate on initiatives designed to clean up the Thames and prevent further harm to its wildlife. The results of this year's census will serve as a reference point for these efforts, guiding policy decisions and public awareness campaigns in the coming months.