Cygnus melancoryphus
The Black-necked Swan, *Cygnus melancoryphus*, is a stunning and instantly recognizable waterfowl species, distinguished by its velvety black head and neck starkly contrasting with its pristine white body plumage. This large swan typically measures between 102-124 cm (40-49 in) in length, with an impressive wingspan of 135-177 cm (53-70 in) and weighing around 3.5-6.7 kg (7.7-14.8 lb). A prominent crimson knob, or caruncle, adorns the base of its grey bill, accented by a white line extending ...
Primarily inhabiting freshwater and brackish wetlands, including shallow lakes, lagoons, marshes, and slow-moving rivers, often with abundant aquatic vegetation. It can be found from sea level up to high Andean lakes at elevations exceeding 2,000 meters.
Primarily herbivorous, feeding on aquatic vegetation such as algae, submerged leaves, and stems, supplemented with small aquatic invertebrates like insect larvae and mollusks obtained by dabbling or filter-feeding.
Black-necked Swans are largely diurnal, spending their days foraging and resting, often congregating in large, loose flocks outside the breeding season, but becoming fiercely territorial during nesting. Their foraging strategy involves dabbling and up-ending in shallow water to reach submerged ve...
The Black-necked Swan is endemic to southern South America, with its breeding range extending across central and southern Chile, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and into southeastern Brazil. A significant breeding population also exists on the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas). During the austral w...
Least Concern
- The Black-necked Swan is the only swan species in the world with a black neck and head contrasting with a white body. - Cygnet 'back-riding' is a prominent and endearing behavior, where the young hitch a ride on their parents' backs for warmth and protection. - Their striking crimson caruncle, ...