From school and pedestrian crossings to deer and tractor crossings, there are a number of signs to warn drivers of approaching objects. Now on the Iowa State campus, there is one more crossing to add to the list: swan crossings.

Neon yellow signs with a picture of a swan were recently placed near Lake Laverne. One is located east of the lake next to the Memorial Union and the other is located north of the lake along Union Drive.

Sir Lancelot and Lady Elaine, the two trumpeter swans that inhabit Lake Laverne, have often been spotted trying to cross the street, leaving them in danger of being hit by oncoming cars.

David Knaphus, adviser of the Liberal Arts and Science Council, has been in charge of the swans since 1977. He said the signs are used to inform and remind people that they may encounter a swan trying to make its way across Union Drive.

Knaphus said the signs were put up for the swans protection, in hopes to save them from being hit by automobiles. Considering the swans are worth $2,500 a piece, the signs were a small piece.

“It’s definitely something different,” said Kristi DeKruif, a freshman in exercise science. “I have never seen [a swan sign] before, but I think it’s probably a good idea so people know they are there, and they will look out for them.”