Black Swan

     The Black Swan is one of just three Swan species live in the southern hemisphere. They are found throughout Australia with the exception of Cape York Peninsula, and are more common in the south. Black swans have also been introduced into several countries, including New Zealand, where it is now common, and to New Guinea where they are vagrant.

     The Black swan is easily distinguishable with its black plumage, except for the broad white wing tips that are visible in flight. Its bill is of a deep orange-red color, which is paler at the tip, with a distinct narrow white band towards the end. In proportion to its size, the Black Swan has the longest neck of any swan species. They also have black or greyish-black legs and feet.

     The breeding season of the Black swan appears to vary with location. However, it generally occurs in the wetter winter months, from February to September, when water levels are at their highest. Both cob and pen take part in building the nest, which is a large mound of reeds, grasses and weeds that either floats on the water or is placed on the ground. The pen lays 4 – 6 greenish-white eggs, and incubates them for 35 – 40 days. The chicks hatch covered in light grey down, and are tended by both adults for a period of about six months. During that time they may ride on the backs of the adults during ventures into deeper water.

     The Black swan cygnets fledge at about 150 – 170 days old, although fledging can occur before this in years when food availability is high. And they reach sexual maturity between 18 and 36 months of age. Black Swans are also the official birds of western Australia and they are featured on the flag and in the coat of arms.