Swans show much bravery, especially in defending their young; indeed,
from their size, they are able to do battle with the largest of the
feathered tribe. They have been known also to attack people who have
ventured nearer their cygnets than they liked.
I remember a lady being attacked by a swan on the banks of a lake, in
the grounds of a relative of mine. She had to take to flight, and was
met running along the path crying for aid, with the swan, its wings
outstretched, in full chase after her.