Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

     Photos by BarrytheBirder

The Mute Swan is an Old World species introduced and breeding along the Atlantic Coast from Massachusetts to Virginia and the Great Lakes Region.  The Audubon Handbook of Eastern Birds states that the Mute Swan is: "A very large, long-necked swan of freshwater or brackish areas; easily recognized by its 'sailing' posture on water".   It goes on to say: "now commonly seen in ponds of public parks and gardens as well as in the wild...can be aggressive, especially in defence of its nest". 

Mute Swans have a prominent black knob at base of orange bill.   They hold their necks in a graceful S-curve, with bill pointed down.   They also often swim with wings arched over their back.   

The Mute Swan's voice is usually silent, while occasionally grunting or hissing, while its wingbeats are noisy in flight.

                                                                      

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BarrytheBirder