Brrrrrrr! It’s was an icy scene on Widewater lagoon today with most of it frozen over! If you’re wondering how the Swans cope with these sub zero temperatures, here’s a little info:

The body temperature of a Swan is 40 degrees – higher than humans at 37 degrees. Feathers are wonderful insulation to keep them warm. Swans keep them waterproof by spreading preen oil over the feathers from a gland by the base of their tails. Their feet have a thermo regulatory adaptation to prevent the feet from getting frost bite. Bills are kept warm by laying the neck along the body and tucking them under the warm feathers.

So, Swans are adapted for harsh weather conditions which is essential for the arctic species such as the Trumpeter, Whooper and Bewick Swans though these species usually migrate for the Winter.

The best way we can help them cope with the cold weather and this includes all birds, is feeding. Thanks to all who are doing so. The new family have ploughed through the ice and are able to get to my garden and I feed them here and put out fresh water changing it as it freezes over! Stanley and Hilda are being looked after by the East end residents and in particular, Danny and Tina Howard. Danny has broken the ice for them with a rope and wood creation so they can get to his feeding station, Thank you both- you are stars! Thanks to everyone helping our birds and wildlife during this cold snap. Hopefully the milder weather will move in over the next few days before the Penguins move in!

Written by Jo Procter

Please see below a few more photos taken at the currently freezing lagoon.