1. Nest building and defense: Mother swans construct well-hidden and secure nests with woven reeds and other vegetation in secluded spots near water bodies. They will aggressively defend the nest against any perceived threats, including predators and potential nest intruders.
2. Constant Vigilance: Mother swans maintain constant vigilance over their young cygnets, keeping watch for potential dangers and predators. They are always on alert and ready to take protective action when needed.
3. Brood care and guarding: Mother swans stay close to their cygnets, often forming a protective circle around them when resting on water. They use their wings to shield the cygnets from the elements and potential harm, providing warmth and protection.
4. Aggressive Defense: If threatened, mother swans will display aggressive behavior, such as hissing, flapping their wings, and charging at the source of the threat. They are known for their defensive strikes toward perceived predators and may attack with their wings and beaks to protect their young.
5. Escape Tactics: In some cases, mother swans may resort to evasive maneuvers to keep their cygnets safe. They can rapidly swim away with the cygnets in tow or lead them to concealed locations where they can hide from predators.
6. Teaching survival skills: Mother swans gradually teach their cygnets essential survival skills, such as foraging for food, swimming, and recognizing potential hazards. As cygnets grow older and stronger, they become less reliant on constant protection from their mothers.
7. Family structure: Mother swans typically form a strong bond with their cygnets and will stay together as a family unit until the cygnets become independent. They provide care and protection throughout the vulnerable early stages of the cygnets' lives.