White swans as death omens?

Question

I remember hearing about some superstition that was around in the Middle Ages. It said that if you heard a white swan or saw one, it meant that you were going to die soon. Could someone please give me some more information on swans as death omens and more information about the one I just asked?

Thanks.

Answer 1

The swan's song sounds so sorrowful it was though to have sang as it died (as in the term "swan song" for a last act). This might have something to do with it being perceived as an omen of impending death.

Answer 2

I seem to remember several tales about ladies calling their lovers as white swans, everywhere from Ireland to Russia. I don't have any online references, though.

Answer 3

I heard this about owls. That when the owl calls your name it means your soon going to pass. Owls represent death in nearly every culture.....i'v enever heard about swans though :( sorry if i didn't help