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| Two Mute Swans at Pagham Harbour 3rd April 2011 |
Latin name
Cygnus olor
Family
Swans, ducks and geese (Anatidae)
Overview
The mute swan is a very large white waterbird. It has a long S-shaped neck, and an orange bill with black at the base of it. Flies with its neck extended and regular slow wingbeats. The population in the UK has increased recently, perhaps due to better protection of this species. The problem of lead poisoning on lowland rivers has also largely been solved by a ban on the sale of lead fishing weights. Some birds stay in their territories all year, while others move short distances and form winter flocks. In cold weather, some birds arrive from Europe into eastern England.
Where to see them
Breeds across most of the UK, other than in northern Scotland, mid-Wales and the moors of south-west England. Possible to see anywhere there is a shallow lake, or a slow-flowing rivers, even in urban areas and parks.
When to see them
All year round
What they eat
Water plants, insects and snails.
Hi Dude,
ReplyDeleteThe mute swan is a species of swan and thus a member of the duck, goose and swan family Anatidae. It is native to much of Europe, Asia and the far north of Africa. Measuring 125 to 170 centimetres in length, this large swan is wholly white in plumage with an orange bill bordered with black. It is recognisable by its pronounced knob atop the bill. Thanks for sharing it..........
Wildlife Photographer