ExploreBirds

Black-necked Swan

Cygnus melancoryphus

The Black-necked Swan is a beautiful bird with a striking black neck and white body. They are graceful swimmers and can often be seen gliding on lakes and ponds.

Habitat: Wetlands

Appearance

The Black-necked Swan has a striking black head and neck, contrasting sharply with its pure white body. A bright red knob adorns the base of its black bill, and it features greyish legs. This coloration makes it easily distinguishable from other swan species.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderAnseriformesFamilyAnatidaeGenusCygnus
Black-necked Swan
feathered trait badgewebbed_feet trait badgesocial trait badgefilter_feeder trait badge
Black-necked Swan

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

2/5 · Low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Baby Black-necked Swans often ride on their parents' backs to stay warm and safe!

The red bump on their bill gets bigger and brighter during breeding season!

These swans are the smallest of all the swans found in South America!

They build impressive floating nests made of plants anchored to reeds in the water!

Special abilities

Ability

Underwater Forager

Black-necked Swans can reach food deep underwater by 'tipping up' or fully diving, helping them find hidden aquatic plants and invertebrates.

Ability

Filter-Feeder Bill

Black-necked Swans have a specialized bill that allows them to filter tiny organisms and plant particles from the water.

Ability

Cygnets' Ride

Black-necked Swans can carry their young cygnets on their backs, keeping them safe from predators and cold water.

Measurements & details

Length
102-124 cm
Wingspan
135-175 cm
Weight
3.5-6.7 kg
Lifespan
10-20 years
Top Speed
60 km/h
Clutch Size
4-7
Incubation
34-36 days
Migration Distance
1000 km

Diet & Feeding

These swans feast on yummy aquatic plants and tiny water creatures by filtering the water!

Age differences: Young cygnets eat more insects for growth, gradually shifting to a plant-based diet as they mature.

Primary Foods

  • Aquatic vegetation
  • Algae
  • Small insects
  • Crustaceans

Foraging Method

  • Filter Feeding

Ecological connections

eaten by

Culpeo Fox

Lycalopex culpaeus

Preys on eggs and cygnets in coastal nesting areas.

depends on

Common Reed

Phragmites australis

Provides nesting material and shelter in wetlands.

eats

Sago Pondweed

Potamogeton pectinatus

A primary food source, diving for roots and shoots.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

2/5 · Low

Always watch swans from a distance, as they can be protective of their space.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Black-necked Swan?

102-124 cm

What is Black-necked Swan's wingspan?

135-175 cm

How much does Black-necked Swan weigh?

3.5-6.7 kg

How long does Black-necked Swan live?

10-20 years

How fast can Black-necked Swan move?

60 km/h

What does Black-necked Swan eat?

These swans feast on yummy aquatic plants and tiny water creatures by filtering the water!

Where is Black-necked Swan usually found?

Wetlands

How does Black-necked Swan hunt?

Filter Feeding

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