Black Swan
Cygnus atratus
Type:
Bird
Life Span
50-60 years
Size
43-56 inches
Average Weight
8.2-20 lbs
Group Name
Bevy
Group Size
Varies
Name of Young
Cygnet
Facts
- Black swans are a large species of water foul. They are mostly black and have red bills. Even though they look entirely black, their flight feathers are white.
- They are from Southern Australia, but they are also very popular in other parts of the world as ornamental birds.
- Black swans are nomadic and do not follow set migratory patterns. Their movement is based on rainfall. They can live in areas with fresh, brackish, or salt water. They mostly eat aquatic and marshland plants.
- They make a bugling call that can be heard for miles. They are capable of making other vocalizations such as crooning and whistles.
- They have very long necks that are ‘S’ shaped. Their necks contain 22-25 vertebrae, humans and many mammals only have 7.
Did You Know?
Black swans are monogamous meaning they mate for life. They often use the same nest year after year and rebuild it as needed. Both parents care for the eggs and hatchlings. The cygnets sometimes will ride on a parent’s back.
