Swan upping commences on the Thames . The ancient custom of ' Swan upping ' marking the swans in the river Thames was carried out by Mr F T Turk , the Kings swan master , accompanied by members of the VIntners and Dyers Companies . All the swans in the river belong either to the King or to these companies . Swans caught and ready for the marking at Strand on the Green near Kew , the scene of the first catch . Mr F T Turk , the King ' s swan master is in centre . 18 July 1932