The Mute Swan is a resident that remains in Sweden all year round as long as it can find open water, and winter is the time when many people see the species at close range.
Overwintering: large numbers stay in southern and central Sweden at ice-free lakes, harbours, canals and coasts.
Flocking: in winter territorial behaviour relaxes and the birds gather in loose flocks on the best stretches of open water.
Supplementary feeding: in parks and harbours Mute Swans are often fed, which helps them stay put even during cold spells.