A "FEISTY" swan that "regularly blocks roads" brought traffic on Northam Bridge to a standstill earlier today. 

Video taken by the Daily Echo shows the white bird stopping cars in the middle of the road and two men trying to catch it.

WATCH: Swan on key Southampton bridge brings traffic to a halt

However, Rob Corbidge, a resident of Telephone House which overlooks the bridge, said the swan "regularly pesters drivers on the bridge".

The 49-year-old said: "It's funny because it happens about every few months and persistently gets in the way.

"Sometimes I will be out on my balcony and watch it happen. It's quite lucky that it hasn't been hit and people actually stop for it."

The incident at around 9.45am today ended with two men picking up the swan and dropping it onto a grass patch next to Northam Bridge.

A spokesperson for HART Wildlife Rescue, which covers the Hampshire area, has warned people what to do when encountering the animals.

Daily Echo: A swan blocking Northam Bridge, SouthamptonA swan blocking Northam Bridge, Southampton (Image: Daily Echo)

They said: "Don't try to remove it yourself as swans can be aggressive and we don't want anyone, either the swan or the people getting hurt.

"It's best not to touch swans, and if you have to remove one, then guide it away from the road and towards a location near the river.

"Often when they are on roads it is because they may be injured and have crash landed.

"Please call our number which is  01420 562335 or the RSPCA to help move any animals to a safe area."