SWANS at Weymouth's Radipole Lake could be under threat due to coronavirus.

Graceful swans have drawn families and visitors to Radipole Lake for generations, known to many as 'Swannery Lake'.

But, with fewer people visiting due to the coronavirus lockdown, swan warden Derek Davey fears swans and ducks could starve, as the birds have come to rely on residents feeding them and are not used to foraging.

"They're going to struggle a bit - especially as they're all sitting on eggs now," Mr Davey said.

"Some people are still feeding them but obviously visitor numbers are way, way down. As soon as the signets hatch in about three to four weeks time, that's when there will be big problems."

Nearby residents are now being urged to think of the town's feathered inhabitants when they head out for daily exercise, which the UK Government said is ok to do if people remain in their local area.

Weymouth resident Mr Davey added: "I have spoken to the visitor centre and they're going to try and either feed them, or give me some funds so I can buy feed - but that may or may not happen."

The role of swan warden is a 100 year-old tradition, employed by the council on a voluntary basis, It is a role Mr Davey has carried for the last ten years, meeting expenses from his own pocket, through a love of birds and all wildlife.

He added: "Many people will say, 'why don't they just fly away and find food?' But they are used to being fed and so they tend to stay put and not look for a food source elsewhere.

"With the nesting season approaching, the swans will also be protecting potential nest sites, so will not leave."

According to Mr Davey the best types of food for swans and ducks include wheat, grain, while layered pellets (sold as chicken food), is ideal. Chopped up lettuce is also a safe bet, including for young birds, which can also have layered clump, which is layered pellets ground up.

"Bread isn't ideal, but if feeding bread it's best to give it to them wet," he added.