Swan charity says 'don't panic' over warm weather behaviour of the birds

A swan will regulate its body temperature by resting one leg on its back and it is not a cause for concern.

Those who have not seen this before, frequently think the leg is injured as a result, but it is mainly to do with heat exchange and rest.

Photographer Phil Cannings took these pictures of a swan with its leg up on the Kennet & Avon at Victoria Park today (Wednesday), so if you do see them 'chilling' like this, don't be too concerned.

As a result of calls from concerned members of the pubic worried that the swans may be injured, Berkshire charity Swan Support has put out the following:

"As the weather gets warmer, you may see the Swans/Cygnets with either of their legs resting out on their backs.

"This is mainly to help them regulate their body temperature (to either lose or absorb heat from the sun) but also to help conserve energy….we like to think they are just (literally) putting their feet up and chilling.

"They will do this for a period of time, sometimes for over an hour and will even do it when being chased by other swans."

The charity added that "if you do have any concerns, then please do call us as we would rather check a bird over than leave it suffering."

Earlier this year traffic was brought to a halt near the Robin Hood roundabout when 'just the one swan' was spotted wandering along the road.