Technically owned by the Queen and covered in 25,000 pure white feathers each, mute swans are one of the UK's largest and most graceful wild birds.
Now people in Kent can watch the ups-and-downs of these waddling wonders during the breeding season, thanks to the RSPB and Leeds Castle.
From 21 March to 19 April, A Date With Nature at Leeds Castle will see the RSPB stationed by the Castle's main lake with telescopes and binoculars. Visitors can watch with the experts as the swans perform distinctive mating displays, build nests, and lay eggs.
The RSPB's Kate Whitton, A Date With Nature organiser, said: 'This is a great time of year to watch the swans do their thing. I love watching them ‘busk', which is when they curve their necks and puff their wings up like a sail to stop others invading their territory.
'Their nests are something else – huge constructions built by both sexes from reeds and waterweed. If we're lucky and get some mild weather, we could even get an early-nester hatching eggs during the project, just watch this space.'
Other birds found at Leeds Castle include Canada geese, cormorants and black-headed gulls. With the RSPB on hand throughout the project, guests can learn more about these species, and find out how to help the wildlife in their own garden.
The RSPB Date With Nature team will return to Leeds Castle in August to see how the swans' offspring are faring.
A Date With Nature at Leeds Castle runs from 21 March to 19 April, 10.30 am to 4.30 pm, everyday except Wednesday. Entrance to the castle costs £15 for adults; £12.50 for concessions and £9.50 for children, and is valid for a year from the date of purchase.
For more information call 01273 775333.