Next week sees the start of the annual swan census on the Thames. Traditionally all the swans on the Thames were owned by the Royals and ended up on their dinner plates. In the 15th century a Royal Charter allowed two companies to share in the stock of swans. Every year in the third week of July, the Royals, the Vintners' Company and the Dyers' Company row up the Thames and ring the swans legs.
In days gone by they would nick the beaks of the swans, but this process was deemed too cruel as late as 1988.
The timetable for the event can be found here:
http://www.royal.gov.uk/output/Page384.asp


The Queen's swan marker seems to have a nice job:
http://www.royal.gov.uk/output/Page3324.asp