Investigation Launched After Rare Black Cygnets And Swan Die

Rare black cygnets that became internet famous after getting millions of views have sadly died in the recent cold snap.

The baby swans went viral, getting millions of views on the world's first Black Swan Cam. The stunning creatures have attracted tourists to Dawlish in Devon for hundreds of years.

But this year, thanks to the wonders of live streaming, the five adult birds and five baies reached over 18 million people around the world.

But the swans lost two of the cygnets, with the baby animals found dead next to the nest.

It was believed they could have died due to recent cold weather, but the cause of death is being investigated.

Later in the week, more of the cygnets died, plus a 12-month-old swan.

Dawlish Waterfowl shared the news on Facebook, writing: "In the last two days we have had a couple of visits from the vets who have checked the cygnets, a one-year-old and a Black Swan.

"Sadly we have lost all the cygnets plus a 12-month-old, and we have one who is still poorly and on medication.

"We do not know the cause investigations are underway, and we will keep you updated as we know more."

Followers of the page were gutted to hear the news.

One wrote: "Absolutely heartbreaking news lets just hope it's nothing serious and you have better luck with them next year."

Another commented: "So sad... I guess it could be the avian flu that's in other areas in the UK at the moment?"

Someone else said: "It's a great shame. The parents worked so hard with their little family. I hope they find out what has caused this so that the other waterfowl can be protected. Good luck to the wardens - you are doing a great job trying to keep them safe."

The flock is synonymous with the town and there are records of black swans being in the town in the early 1900s.

The black swans have been there ever since and are now managed, together with other waterfowl, by the Dawlish Town Council through the waterfowl warden.

Three cygnets hatched in July to join the four remaining adult black swans and two cygnets who are on the verge of growing up in the town, and have been joined by six new baby cygnets.