Swans put officers in a flap with visit to Fettes station

But contrasting with caged crooks intent on escape, these feathered felons were sprung trying to break in.

A group of swans was spotted loitering around Fettes police station before making an audacious bid to get inside.

The four birds were shooed away by a member of staff but were lucky to escape charges of peck-pocketing after trying to pluck items from his trousers. It is thought they came from nearby Inverleith Park.

It is not the first time the police station has turned into a temporary bird sanctuary.

For a number of years it has been the favoured haven for a brace of ravenous ducks who set up camp outside the entrance and are happy to accept the regular meals and water provided.

The winged guests have even been spotted waddling into the foyer and feeding on scraps of bread left by police staff.

So routine are their visits a police source claimed they have been given the adopted names Vera and Jack Duck-worth.

A police spokesman said the arrival of four noble swans made for a refreshing change.

He said: "We have never had swans here before, although in the past there are the ducks who have been regular visitors to Fettes and we leave them out titbits of food as a snack.

"The swans seemed to be very interested in us and wanted to explore the building but obviously we couldn't provide access.

"When word went out there were swans outside, it caused some interest among staff. Our photographer approached them with caution in case they played up a little and they began pecking at his pocket.

"They were very friendly creatures and seemed to be quite tame. We don't know where they came from as we never got the chance to interview them but we suspect they came from Inverleith Park. They all had little tags on their legs as well.

"They were very welcome visitors and we look forward to their return."

A number of recent swan sightings have been reported in urban areas throughout the city, including one on Queensferry Road this week.

Scottish SPCA ambulance driver Jeni Wright said: "We have received a number of calls this week regarding the swans at Inverleith Park crossing the road.

"They may be being tempted out of the park by people feeding them near the road as food can be scarce at this time of year. There are a lot of swans in the park so some of them may be getting bullied and chased out."