2 October, 2024

Swan lake no fun when you’re swimming solo

Widow’s weeds… This solo black swan, pictured on Lake Pupuke, is missing her life mate and her cygnets

Every year in the 12 years that we have lived by Lake Pupuke, this swan couple (pictured) have brought their beautiful offspring to visit us.
In the past two years, each of their babies has died – probably taken by eels, water rats or pūkeko.
As if that’s not sad enough, the male swan recently disappeared and now the female, who visits daily, is alone. It is heartbreaking.
Last night we saw a wonderful story on TV1 news of a white swan who was provided with a mate via a community link-up and we were wondering if anyone knows of a solitary male swan who might be introduced to our lonely girl?
Anne and Bob Tindall

• If readers have helpful suggestions or contacts for finding the solo swan a mate, please email them in and we will pass them on. Email: news@rangitoto-observer.co.nz with “swan” in the subject line.