Swimmers urged to keep out of Hampstead Heath pond to protect nesting swans
Nature groups are urging swimmers to avoid Hampstead Heath pond to protect nesting swans and their cygnets. The area has seen an influx of swimmers due to record high temperatures, disturbing the wildlife. Conservationists are concerned that such disturbances could lead to abandonment of nests and increased risks for the young birds.
- ▪Swimmers have been using the nature pond at Hampstead Heath to cool off during record temperatures.
- ▪Nature groups have raised alarms about the disturbance to nesting swans and their cygnets.
- ▪The RSPB has urged people to swim in authorized areas to protect wildlife during the crucial breeding season.
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Swans, their cygnets and other birds have had to share their conservation area in north London with swimmers using it to escape record May temperatures. Photograph: Frederick Florin/AFP/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenSwans, their cygnets and other birds have had to share their conservation area in north London with swimmers using it to escape record May temperatures. Photograph: Frederick Florin/AFP/Getty ImagesAnimalsSwimmers urged to keep out of Hampstead Heath pond to protect nesting swansNature groups say cygnets and their parents need to be left alone by people trying to stay cool in heatwaveHelena HortonWed 27 May 2026 11.36 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleNature groups have pleaded with swimmers to give wildlife a wide berth after dozens of people swam in a nature pond on…
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