People are being urged to take care as swans emerge from nests with their cygnets.
Department of Parks and Wildlife officer Cameron Craigie said there had been recent reports of swans and cygnets walking across busy roads and highways.
“Swans often don’t nest at a waterway, just in the vicinity of it, and once the family is mobile, they are out and about and in danger of being hit by vehicles,” Mr Craigie said.
“The department is asking motorists to take care to avoid swans without endangering themselves or other road users.”
Mr Craigie said it was important people did not disturb nesting swans or try to get close to them.
“Swans are protective of their cygnets and the male, in particular, can become very aggressive,” he said.
“If approached they may also panic and wander out into traffic.
“While these swan families are in a vulnerable state we encourage people not to approach them, feed them or interfere with them in any way.”
Adult and juvenile swans and ducks are also known to cross the Mitchell and Kwinana freeways and other busy roads and cycle paths in the vicinity of wetlands. They generally navigate their path safely across roads when motorists slow down.
“Swans are nomadic birds and opportunistic in their behaviour, and they are particularly active during or after rains,” Mr Craigie said.
If people see sick or injured wildlife they can call Parks and Wildlife’s 24/7 Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055.
