A SWAN which came under attack from an angry pair of birds defending their territory in Diglis flew straight into a tree at top speed.

The unfortunate bird came under attack in Worcester’s Diglis Basin at about 1.30pm on Monday, September 28 when it flew into an area populated by another pair of swans, who didn’t take too kindly to the invasion of their home and chased the unwanted visitor off.

Unfortunately it was so intent on getting away as quickly as possible it didn’t notice the tree – and flew into it head first.

Luckily Andrew Burnside, who runs the shop on the corner of the basin next to The Anchor pub, was on hand and alerted bird charity Wychavon Swan Rescue.

“Some walkers came into the shop and told me about it,” he said.

“It went into the tree so hard there were feathers embedded in it.

“I called the swan rescue and stayed by the swan to make sure it was ok and no dogs tried to have a go at it.

“We’ve got a nesting pair here and they were defending their territory.”

John Stewart from Wychbold Swan Rescue went to the scene and brought the swan back to the charity’s headquarters near Droitwich.

The organisation’s founder Jan Harrington – who was awarded an OBE in 2004 for her work helping sick and injured birds – said it appeared to be shaken but generally unhurt.

“It was a territorial dispute, which does often happen,” she said.

“At this time of year birds are moving around so they may come into another’s territory.

“I’m going to keep him here until I’m sure he’s alright.

“He had a nasty bump but I think he’s alright. These things do happen.”

Wychbold Swan Rescue cares for sick and injured swans and other water birds such as duck and geese. To report a hurt bird call 07786 434 793 or 07867 672 758.

For more information visit wychboldswanrescue.co.uk.