Black-necked Swan
Cygnus melanocoryphus
CLASS: Aves
ORDER: Anseriformes
SUBORDER: Anserinae
FAMILY: Anatidae
SIZE:
Approx. 3 feet
RANGE:
Southern half of South America
HABITAT:
Lakes and swamps
DIET:
Wild - Grains and grasses; insects and fish spawn
Zoo - Waterfowl grain mixture
DESCRIPTION:
Entire plumage of body and lower neck is white with remainder of the neck and head black. Bill is bluish gray with conspicuous bright red caruncle at the base, present in both male and female. Immatures have a lot of gray in plumage.
ADAPTATIONS:
Aggressive birds; very protective
Mature at 3-4 years of age
Move very awkwardly on land; flight is rapid and noisy; with labored take-off
Generally shy disposition and hard to approach
Feeding takes place almost entirely in water
Voice is a whistling sound
The birds circle each other calling repeatedly while moving the head and neck up and down. Aggressive intention by the male in defense of its territory is signaled by lowering the neck and thrusting the head forward.
YOUNG:
Breeding season from July to November. Nests built in brackish waters. Clutch size varies from three to seven long cream colored eggs. Male guards nest and female will incubate for lengthy periods, even days, without leaving for food.
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