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How do swans find each other for life?

Two swans swim on a quiet lake. Their necks are drawn together, forming a heart. This is not a fairy tale - this is how swans really greet each other every morning. And the most amazing thing: this couple will be together for life.

Swans live up to 25-30 years. And all this time they stay with one pair. How do they find each other? A young swan looks for a partner for 2-3 years. He gets to know different birds, swims with them, even dances on the water. But he chooses only one - the one with whom his movements and character match best.

Once a pair has formed, swans perform a daily «love ritual»: they lean towards each other, touch their beaks, and bob their heads. Their necks form a heart shape—the most famous symbol of love in nature.

What if one swan gets lost? The other waits for it for weeks, calls, searches. If a partner dies, the swan is very sad. Some find a new partner after a year or two, and some remain single forever. Scientists have recorded cases when a swan «cried» — made sad sounds and did not eat for several days.

Swans also build nests together — large ones, made of branches and grass, on the shore. The male guards the female while she incubates the eggs for 35 days. Then dad and mom lead the fluffy swans together, showing them where the delicious seaweed is and where to hide from foxes.

When you see swans on the lake, know that you are seeing true love.