Black Swan

Cygnus atratus

This unmistakable bird is endemic to Australia and has been successfully introduced to New Zealand. In recent years as many as eight pairs have built their large nest mounds here, each raising up to six young. The downy chicks develop dull brownish-grey feathers before changing to adult plumage. Before the lake dries they disperse, some to Freshwater Bay, others to permanent water elsewhere.

  • Length: 1.1 - 1.4m
  • Clutch Size: 4-8

Drawings kindly provided by Pam. Photography and text by David Free. Audio clips provided by David Secomb.