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Black Swan (Cygnus atratus) — photo 1 of 5
© Nathan Ruser cc-by

Ducks, geese, and swans · Waterfowl

Black Swan

Cygnus atratus

Voice

Alarm

Sonothèque ADVL

0:05

Call

Sonothèque ADVL

0:15

Call

Sonothèque ADVL

0:09

How to recognize it

  • Large swan, slightly smaller than a mute swan

  • Black plumage and legs, bright red bill with a pale ring near the tip

  • Very long neck; in flight the neck makes up more than half the body length

  • Trumpeting call, heard on water and in flight

About the species

The Black Swan stands out at once by its long, curved neck and dark shape on the water. Up close, the red bill is striking, and in flight the pale wing feathers show clearly.

It is calmer than many swans in its movements, but it is not silent. Its far-carrying, trumpet-like calls can be heard on water or in the air, and it also gives softer notes and whistles when disturbed.

It favors shallow freshwater wetlands, lakes, swamps, and rivers with plenty of aquatic plants. It feeds mostly on water plants and algae, may take grain too, and moves around Australia in response to rain and drought; in New Zealand it has long established itself.

Where to find

  • Along quiet ponds, canal banks, and broad river backwaters — especially where reeds meet open water, Black Swan often feeds with its neck dipped under the surface.

  • In ornamental lakes and larger urban waterbodies, including shallow edges and small islands, it may stay in pairs or loose groups and give a loud trumpeting call from the water.

  • Near park shorelines and waterlogged lawns after rain, look for it grazing on grasses and spilled grain.

  • Early in the morning on embankments and beside bridges, it can be seen gliding with an arched neck and raised feathers.

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Sources