Mute Swans are not so mute...

Photo: Andrej Isakovic/AFP/Getty Images

Mute Swans (Cygnus olor) and gulls are seen above fighting for pieces of bread on the snow-covered banks of the Danube River in Begrade, Serbia.   Wikipedia states that Mute Swans are less vocal than other swan species, but they do, however, make a variety of grunting, hoarse whistling, and snorting noises, especially in communicating with their cygnets.   The also usually hiss at competitors or intruders trying to enter their territory.   Cygnets are especially vocal, and communicate through a variety of whistling and chirping sounds when content, as well as a harsh squawking noise when distressed or lost.   Mute Swans are the commonest Eurasian swan and not entirely silent after all.

                                                                                              Photo by BarrytheBirder

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