Coscoroba Swan
Coscoroba coscoroba
Class
Aves
Order
Anseriformes
Family
Anatidae
Coscoroba Swan
Range
Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, southern Paraguay, and southern Brazil
Size
Length: 35 - 45 in
Wingspan: MALE 18.9 in/FEMALE 17 - 18 in
Weight: MALE 8.4 - 11.9 lbs/FEMALE 7 - 10 lbs
Habitat
Lagoons and swamps (prefers shallow areas of fresh water with sufficient vegetation for cover)
Young
Clutch of 4 - 7 eggs
Incubation: 33 - 40 days
Diet
Plant matter, small aquatic invertebrates, and small fish
IUCN Status
Least Concern
The coscoroba swan is the smallest species of swan.
Coscoroba swans feed by dabbling or grazing on the surface of the water for plants and algae.
Unique Swan
Coscoroba swans are interesting from an evolutionary standpoint as they look more like a goose than a swan and reside in their own genus. Scientists are studying to see if they might be the evolutionary link between whistling ducks, swans and geese.
Flock Size & Vocalizations
Flock size varies from a few dozen to hundred or more, depending on the season and location. Loud, trumpet-like sounds are produced by special structures in their throat. Their species name comes from the raspy vocalizations they make, which sound like they’re saying “cos-co-ba” or similar variations of the word.
Status
Coscoroba swans face threats from habitat loss, collision with man-made objects, and avian influenza. These swans, with their aquatic feeding needs, are important in maintaining and controlling the growth of aquatic vegetation.