Cygnus cygnus

(Linnaeus, 1758)

Vernacular names
English : Whooper swan
French : Cygne chanteur

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Anseriformes
Family : Anatidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The species grows to 165 cm in length for a weight up to 15 kg, males being bigger than females. Plumage entirely white (grey when juvenile). Head has an angular profile, bill very long, black with large yellow cere and black edge of bill.

Range and habitat
The species breeds in north-east Europe and most of northern Asia and winters in western and southeast Europe, and eastern Asia. Lives in shallow freshwater pools and lakes near wooded areas.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species is quite common and some of its populations are growing. It is still threatened by loss of habitat, pollution and hunting.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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