While it’s not common for swans to attack golfers, there have been instances reported where swans have exhibited aggressive behavior toward people on golf courses. Swans may display warning signs such as hissing, fluffing up their feathers, or spreading their wings as a defensive posture to deter perceived threats. Ignoring these warnings and getting too close may escalate the situation.
Also, swans, particularly during breeding season, may become territorial and exhibit protective behavior around their nests or young cygnets. If a golfer inadvertently gets too close to a nesting area, a swan may perceive them as a threat and react defensively.
Here’s an example of some footage where a golfer’s territory and a swan’s territory intersect:
