Waterfowl Species of Australia - Black Swan

Black Swan - Protected

Distribution and Habitat

The Black Swan is distributed throughout much of Australia and is particularly numerous in south-eastern and south-western Australia. Black Swans occur on most wetlands, ranging from small well-vegetated freshwater swamps to large, open waters, including bays and inlets.

Status

The Black Swan is fully protected in all states and territories and must not be shot.

Description

In flight, a large black swan with a very long slender neck with white flight feathers in wings. The flight is slow with slow wing beats.

Male and female have a similar appearance, juveniles are grey-brown with black tips to the outer white flight feathers, and cygnets are light grey, downy with grey-black bill and feet.

This species should never be confused with Australian game waterfowl and must not be shot.

Voice

A high-pitched bugle is often uttered in flight.