Black swans are the only entirely black swan species, with dark body plumage, white wing tips, and a red bill with a white band. They are native to Australia but have been introduced elsewhere and prefer habitats like lakes and rivers where they feed on aquatic plants. They form monogamous, lifelong bonds and both parents incubate eggs and raise their young (cygnets).
Physical characteristics
Color: Almost entirely black with white tips on the wings, which are only visible in flight or when lifted.
Bill: Deep orange-red with a narrow white band near the tip.
Eyes: Red.
Size: Lengths are typically 110–140 cm (43–55 in), and they can weigh up to 9 kg (20 lbs).
Neck: Have the longest neck-to-body ratio of any swan species, with 24 or 25 neck vertebrae compared to a human's seven.
Habitat and diet
Native range: Australia and Tasmania.
Introduced range: New Zealand, Europe, and other parts of the world.
Habitat: Prefer large, permanent wetlands such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and estuaries, needing at least 40 meters of clear water to take off.
Diet: Primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae, aquatic plants, and grains from cultivated fields.
Reproduction and life cycle
Mating: Form monogamous, lifelong bonds with their mates.
Nesting: Build nests near or on the water.
Eggs: Lay 4 to 8 eggs.
Incubation: Both parents take turns incubating the eggs for 29 to 36 days.
Young: Cygnets can swim shortly after hatching and stay with their parents for several months until they are ready to fledge.
Maturity: Reach reproductive maturity in about 2 to 3 years.
Other facts
Predators: Adults have few natural predators, but their young can be preyed upon by introduced species like cats, dogs, and foxes.
Vocalization: Make musical bugling sounds and hiss when threatened or defending their young.
Conservation status: Considered "Least Concern" by the IUCN.
