Mute Swan
Cygnus olor
Aves › Anseriformes › Anatidae › Cygnus
Conservation status: least_concern
The Mute Swan is a large white waterbird with an orange bill and black face mask that makes it instantly recognizable on lakes and rivers across Europe and North America. Unlike other swan species, it rarely calls out loud, earning its "mute" name, and it's known for being quite aggressive when defending its territory or young.
How To Identify
These magnificent waterfowl are characterized by their large size and striking white plumage. Males and females share a similar appearance, though they are most identifiable by the prominent black spat or knob located at the base of the neck.
Habitat
The Mute Swan lives in lakes, rivers, and urban ponds.
Behaviour
The Mute Swan is territorial and arches its wings when threatened.
Native Range
The Mute Swan is native to much of Europe and parts of Asia.
Did You Know?
Despite its name, Mute Swans make a variety of hisses, snorts and wing-beats audible from 1 km.
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