Spitting feathers... grandson of Mr Asbo is nip off the old block
IT IS a case of like father, like grandfather for a rather irate member of a swan family.
People enjoying a relaxing punt down the Backs area of the River Cam at Cambridge are being terrorised by a savage swan nicknamed Asbaby.
He has been hissing and pecking at people, snatching sandwiches, water bottles and even a handbag.
Asbaby is said be nastier than his grandfather, Mr Asbo, who was moved 60 miles away in 2012 by river authorities after repeatedly attacking rowers.
Asbaby’s father, Asboy, conducted a reign of terror last summer, leaving rowers with cuts and bruises.
Chasing
He also attacked other birds and even a cow.
Harry Crossell, 65, who lives near the river, said: “He is even more vicious than his father and grandfather.
“He sticks his neck right into the punts and boats to nip passengers. I’ve seen him chasing after punts and taking their picnics. Once I even saw him put his beak around a bottle of champagne.”
Resident Simon Patterson, 52, said: “We thought Mr Asbo and Asboy were bad but this swan is even worse.
“If he continues someone could get really hurt.”
Bird experts said it was only natural that a swan would protect its territory but Asbaby should be given a wide berth.