Identification
A very large swan with a long neck, orange-red bill and black facial skin. Adults have a bill-base knob; juveniles are usually much browner.
When to look
Many European birds are resident or move locally. Severe weather and the need for safe moulting water can change concentrations.
Where to look
Shallow lakes, marshes, slow waters and sheltered coastal wetlands provide feeding and resting habitat.
Behaviour and ecology
Food and nutrition
Aquatic vegetation forms an important part of feeding, often gathered by reaching below the surface with the long neck.
Breeding and life cycle
Pairs defend nesting territories. After breeding, birds may gather at safe sites while replacing their flight feathers.
A closer look
During wing moult a swan cannot fly, despite its powerful appearance. Safe water is then especially important.
Global conservation assessment
LC · Least Concern
Global category recorded from the linked assessment; it does not describe local abundance. Least Concern does not mean absence of threats.
View the source assessment ↗Observation and photography
Give nesting pairs and family groups plenty of space. Do not approach chicks, feed birds for photographs or block their route to water.
Sources and further reading
Keep a distance that allows birds to feed and rest normally. Do not enter colonies, approach nests, flush roosts or use playback for photographs. Never publish precise nest locations of sensitive species. Follow reserve rules and your guide's advice.