Mute Swan

     The Mute Swan is probably the most well-known species of the Swan family, being mentioned in many European fairy tales. It is native to much of Europe and Asia, and it has been also introduced to North America, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. The name ‘mute’ derives from it being less vocal than other Swan species.

     The Mute swan is a beautiful bird indeed with a wholly white plumage all over its body. It also has a chracteristic orange beak bordered with black, and black legs and feet. As other swan species, both male and female birds are identical in appearance but cobs are larger and have more pronounced knobs atop of their beaks. On average, the Mute swan is the second largest waterfowl species after the Trumpeter Swan, although male Mute swans can easily match or even exceed a male Trumpeter in mass.

     Mute swans’ pairs typically nest solitary, although semi-domesticated birds may nest in large colonies. After mid-April, the pen lays 5 – 7 (up to 12) eggs and incubates them for 35 – 42 days. Mute cygnets fledge after 4 – 5 months and often stay with their parents until the next breeding season. In general, the Mute swan reaches sexual maturity at 3 – 4 years.

     The Mute swan has many cultural aspects across Europe, and it featured strongly in mythology. It has always been considered a symbol of love and devotion due to its long lasting relationship bonds. The Mute Swan is also the national bird of Denmark.

 

Place of originEurasia
UsePreservation
Weight

Male: 11 – 12 kg

female: 8.5 – 9 kg

Egg colorVery pale green

 

bird 2100104 1280 - Mute Swan
The Mute Swan
waters 3246327 1280 2 - Mute Swan
A couple of Mute Swans
4 2 - Mute Swan
The Mute Swan's family by George Rex