#U_Lakes Scientific ringing of swans in action

As part of an awareness campaign under the “UrbanLakes - Cross-border synergy for blue ecosystem preservation (U_Lakes)” project, implemented within the Interreg NEXT Romania–Ukraine program, we continue to share information about important conservation research and observations

Bird ringing is a scientific method that allows researchers to study their migration routes, behavior, and ecology, as well as monitor population status across different regions. For three years in a row, a team has been actively working with the mute swan (Cygnus olor) in Ivano-Frankivsk and the region.

The birds are ringed with special yellow neck rings with letters and numbers, as well as metal leg rings. By the way, it is precisely these neck rings that often cause concern - it may seem that they harm the bird. In reality, there is enough space between the ring and the neck to fit 3 - 4 fingers, and the “squeezing effect” is caused by the feathers and the swan’s own behavior.

Interesting fact: every ringed swan has two rings. The neck ring is clearly visible from a distance, while the metal leg ring can be spotted when the bird swims closer or comes ashore. These rings do not hinder the birds; they move freely and do not affect their feeding.

You can also contribute to the research: if you spot a banded bird, note the location and date, and try to read the letters and numbers on the band. This information should be reported to the Ukrainian Bird Ringsing Center.

Photos: Nataliia Priiatkina, Liudmyla Poklad

This publication has been produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the Executive Committee of the Ivano-Frankivsk City Council and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Union or the management structures of the Interreg VI-A NEXT 2021-2027 Romania-Ukraine Program. 

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