112 International
UK traditional Swan Upping on Thames started in Britain
The old tradition is performed by a special royal service. They catch the birds in the river from 6 rowing boats, weigh and begird them. The officers have 5 days to examine the distance between London and Oxford.
See also: UK traditional Swan Upping on Thames
The tradition goes back to the 12th century when swans were a popular dish.
According to the law, valid until today, all swans on the territory of the Kingdom are monarch’s property and he has the prior right to catch them. Nowadays the main purpose of the Swan Upping is control of population to endangered the species.
