FOLLOWING the recent death of the swans on Bude Canal, it has been confirmed that there are no plans to replace them.

Following suggestions by local people to re-home a pair of swans in Bude, Cornwall Council sought advice from Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset. Based on that advice, the council has decided not to replace the swans.

Dave Wheeler, the Abbotsbury swanherd, said: "You need a license to move swans, and it is only given if it is in the best interests of the swan.

"Abbotsbury swans are privately owned and although they are free to come and go, very few swans move on because the habitat provided for them tailors for their every need.

"Swans are very territorial. If you introduce swans to Bude and a pair of wild swans appears, then one pair would be forced to move on."

Paula Dolphin, Cornwall Councillor for Flexbury and Poughill, said: "It is really sad we have lost the Canal swans. We will wait a year to see if a new pair turn up, and after this period we would take into consideration other alternatives."

Nigel Pearce, Cornwall councillor for Bude South, said: "I can fully appreciate the strength of feeling aroused by the loss of Bude's swans. Their dazzling white plumage, inquisitive nature and their perseverance won many hearts in Bude. Although their loss is tragic, we have every confidence that swans will naturally return to Bude."

Tim Dingle, Honorary Warden of Bude Marshes, said: "Most swans are wild birds. They will naturally inhabit areas with good quality habitat, and Bude Canal and Marshes provide good nesting opportunities and a variety of foods that have attracted swans in the past."

The area is also home to many other birds and animals, and there have been numerous recent reports of otters in Bude.

Mr Dingle continued: "Although nothing can replace the charismatic nature of the swans, wildlife is thriving in the marshes. Spring is well on its way and there are still many reasons to visit Bude Canal and Marshes."

The news follows the autopsy report which confirmed there was no deliberate attack on the birds (as previously reported in the 'Post').