Mute swans have been cherished as symbols of purity and elegance for centuries. Native to Europe and Asia, they were transported to North America in the late nineteenth century by European immigrants. Some swans eventually escaped or were deliberately released into the wild. The Mute Swan is usually silent hence how they got the name but hisses and sometimes utters puppy-like barking notes or loud high-pitched purring sounds. Their wingbeats make musical throbbing or humming sounds which can be heard from a long way off. They usually defend large areas on lakes and rivers, this one seems to have taken to a small lake at my Local hospital, this year producing 7 cygnets, which may present problems, as last year we had to capture them before the pair drove them away, as the lake was too small for them to take off. Thanks for taking time to view and any comments you care to make..