Swan upping is an annual ceremony in England in which mute swans on the River Thames are caught, ringed, and then released.  The historic ceremony dates all the way back to the 12th century, when the English Crown first claimed ownership of all mute swans.  Swans were once considered a delicacy, and the Upping took place to count numbers in order to ensure a plentiful supply for feasts. Today they are no longer eaten but the tradition of swan upping has continued, with the purpose of conservation and education. Get FREE INTERACTIVE GAMES on British values, traditions and culture at www.culturebuffgames.com