Mute Swan

1. Large white swan with an orange bill and black knob

2. Long, curved neck held in an S-shape

3. Juveniles are grey-brown with a grey bill before turning white

Mute Swans feed mainly on underwater plants, reaching them by dipping their long necks below the surface. They are territorial during the breeding season, with pairs often returning to the same nesting sites each year. They build large nests comprised of reeds and other plant material, breeding between September-November. Females lay 5–7 eggs per clutch, and both parents share incubation duties, with the female (pen) doing most of the sitting while the male (cob) guards the territory. Their aggressive defense of nests and feeding areas can displace other waterbirds in some habitats.

Mute Swans are commonly found on large lakes, ponds, slow rivers, and sheltered coastal lagoons. They thrive in urban parks and ornamental lakes, often becoming quite tame around people. Look for them gliding on calm water or feeding in shallow areas with abundant aquatic plants.

Mute Swans have a long association with humans, kept in captivity and introduced to new regions for centuries, especially in Europe. In some areas, they are a symbol of elegance and grace, but where introduced, they can compete with native species and alter local ecosystems.