If you were anywhere near the Thames River in Southern England last week, you probably witnessed a very historical event - Swan Upping, the annual counting of swans - A time honored British tradition that dates all the way back to the 12th Century.

Ordered by the country's ruling monarch, the annual event takes place during the third week of July and involves physically counting each and every swan found cruising in the river. The count is led by the Queen's chief Swan Marker, David Barber, whose main job is to ensure that England's swan population is maintained. Assisting him in this rather tricky chore, is a Swan Warden, and a number of part-time Swan Uppers, who ride aboard skiffs, dressed in traditional scarlet and white uniforms.

In order to ensure an accurate count, the team row up the Thames for five days, counting, weighing and measuring each and every swan and cygnet and also, checking them for diseases and injuries.

While this whole ritual may sound a little strange, Swan Upping is an important British tradition that stems from the premise (which still holds true today) that all unmarked swans swimming in the open waters, belong to the Royal family. In the past, the Swan Markers also captured a few of the white birds to serve as a special treat at banquets. Today however, it is all about conserving the birds, educating young kids and, attracting tourists.

Also, now the Royal family's claim is restricted to swans found on the Thames and its tributaries - Hopefully, this year's swan count resulted in better news than last year's when over 180 of them were found dead due to a duck virus. To read more about this fun tradition go to www.royal.gov.uk.

Resources: royal.gov.uk