Black swan... or Jersey's own Loch Ness monster?

Friday 30 June 2023

Islanders have been left shocked after an image of what appeared to be a black swan swimming in St. Aubin's bay began circulating online.

Originally native to Australia, the black swan was first introduced to the UK in the 18th century.

Before their discovery, a 'black swan' was often used as a metaphor for something that was completely impossible. 

There are thought to be between 100 and 120 breeding pairs in the UK, which are usually found in waterfowl collections and on park lakes. However, in recent years some have escaped and gone feral.

Pictured: The Black Swan spotted in St. Aubin's Bay. (Dave Ward) 

Commenters on Facebook were baffled when an image of what appeared to be one was posted on , with many describing it as "Jersey's own Loch Ness monster."

One commenter, with St. Aubin's Bay's recent sewage mishap firmly in mind, wrote: "It was more than likely white before it entered the water..."

However, other commenters pointed out that there are resident Jersey black swans on Grouville Marsh and Les Mielles golf course.

JSPCA Fundraising and Events Coordinator Emma Duncan said: "It does appear to be a black swan in the picture but we can’t 100% confirm that as the photograph was taken from a distance.

"In Jersey, black swans are not found in the wild so it is likely to be a domestic animal that has escaped. We have not received any calls from anyone who is missing a black swan."