Stratford-upon-Avon, England — A black swan nicknamed “Mr. Terminator” has been relocated from his adopted home in Shakespeare’s birthplace after repeatedly attacking other swans and attempting to dominate local territory.
The bird, also known as Reggie, arrived in Stratford-upon-Avon about nine months ago, quickly becoming a favorite among residents and tourists who admired his striking dark feathers among the area’s native white mute swans.
From Celebrity to Menace
According to local swan warden Cyril Bennis, Reggie’s early days were peaceful — until he began showing aggression toward other swans along the River Avon.
“He became more popular than William Shakespeare himself,” Bennis said. “The darkest side of our Mr. Terminator happened when he tried to muscle in on a pair of our residents with a young cygnet.”
Officials say the black swan chased away the male swan and the cygnet in an attempt to take over the female and the territory.
“He kicked out the male and the cygnet,” Bennis explained. “He tried to take over its territory with the other female.”
A Violent Turn
Bennis told The Independent that the situation worsened when Reggie began trying to drown rival swans in the river. His aggression toward the native population made it impossible for him to stay.
“When he started trying to drown his fellow fowl,” Bennis said, “it needed to move on.”
During the removal operation, Bennis suffered chest injuries while handling the powerful bird. Despite the incident, he confirmed that the river is now calm, and the remaining mute swans have returned to normal behavior.
A New Home in Devon
Reggie has since been relocated to a wildlife habitat in Devon, where experts believe he will have a better environment — and fewer rivals — to coexist peacefully.
Local residents expressed mixed feelings about the move. While some were saddened to see Reggie go, many acknowledged that it was necessary to protect the native swan population.
“He was a beautiful bird to watch, but it’s good that the river is quiet again,” one resident said.
Swans and Territorial Behavior
Experts note that black swans are highly territorial and can become aggressive during breeding or nesting seasons, especially when integrated with mute swans, which are generally less combative. Reggie’s behavior, while extreme, was consistent with dominance instincts often observed in swan populations.
Wildlife authorities continue to monitor both Reggie’s adjustment in Devon and the wellbeing of Stratford’s native swans.
What do you think about Mr. Terminator’s removal — was it the right move for the safety of other swans? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
