The Swan Food Project is a completely volunteer-led organisation that not only feeds the swans in Worcester, but also tags them and keeps an eye on their health, footing the bill for any medical treatment they may need. There are approximately 250 swans that make Worcester their home, and are fed 365 days a year by members of the Swan Food Project. During summer months their work is less vital as in warmer weather there are many passers by that enjoy feeding occasionally, however in winter when natural food is scarce and the general public aren't having picnics by the river, these swans rely on the volunteers for survival. It is also critical that swans
are fed properly during their moulting season when they are unable to fly, and during egg-laying. A natural diet for a swan would be water plants, but these are often scarce in large rivers and canals. The flock here are fed on a variety of things by the volunteers, as well as whatever the general public decide to feed them. Grain is bulk-bought with money generated through fundraising. Local stores and cafĂŠs sell small bags of specialised swan food pellets to people wanting to be involved, and this raises funds for the grain. The local cricket club donates grass cuttings which also form part of their diet. Leftover bread from supermarkets is also used,
