The resident swans of Richmond Park have been getting into new scuffles as they try to fend off visitors.

Swans are territorial animals and parents often fly their cygnets to new ponds, thinking they may be unoccupied.

In October, we reported the poignant story of how a young cob flew back from Queens Mere in Wimbledon Common to the spot in Richmond Park where it sadly lost its cygnet.

The cob got into a fight with the resident pair of swans at Pen Ponds – and the charity which manages Richmond Park has told visitors what they should do if they see fighting or injured swans.

The Royal Parks said: "Lately Richmond Park's resident swans on Upper Pen Ponds have had to defend their territory from swans that have flown in from around the local area. This has led to a few battles - completely normal behaviour for this time of year but they can lead to injuries.

"We are working with the Swan Sanctuary, a charity who care for injured swans, to help keep the birds in good health.

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"They do a fantastic job and have already been out to check on our resident male and pronounced him in good health.

"If you see a swan or any other animal in the park which you are concerned about please call the office on 0300 061 2200 or, out of hours, email [email protected].

"If you wish to help more, donating to Swan Sanctuary is a brilliant way of supporting their work."