Black Swan
Cygnus atratus
-The adult Black Swan measures between 110 and 142 cm (43-56 in) in length and weighs 3.7–9 kg (8.1-20 lbs). Its wing span is between 1.6 and 2 meters (5.3-6.5 ft).
- Swans feed primarily on algae and aquatic plants; but they also eat grain, grasses and crop foods, such as wheat, potatoes and carrots
-The black swan only swims with one leg, tucking the other leg above its tail feathers. Black swans may exhibit this behavior to allow for easily changing direction while swimming and the ability to escape a predator or get to food quickly.
- Black swans are common in the coastal and wetland areas of southern Australia, where they nest in swamps and river estuaries.
-The Black Swan is found in Australia and is also commonly found in New Zealand. Within Australia these magnificent birds are protected whereas in New Zealand, they are hunted due to being seen as an invasive species.
HERE AT ALAMEDA:
We have 4 Black Swans within our duck pond. You will often see them swimming in the water or sitting on a nest during breeding season.