Cygnus atratus
The Black Swan, *Cygnus atratus*, is an iconic and majestic waterfowl species native to Australia. Distinguished by its entirely black plumage, this large swan stands out dramatically against its wetland habitats, especially when its striking white primary and secondary flight feathers are revealed in flight. Adults typically measure 110-142 cm (43-56 in) in length, weigh between 3.7-8.7 kg (8.2-19.2 lb), and boast a wingspan of 160-200 cm (63-79 in). A prominent field mark is its bright red ...
Primarily found in freshwater and brackish wetlands, including large lakes, rivers, swamps, and estuaries, often at low elevations.
Primarily herbivorous, consuming a wide variety of aquatic vegetation, including submerged and emergent plants, algae, seeds, and tubers, often obtained by dabbling or grazing.
Black Swans are primarily diurnal, foraging and socializing during the day, and roosting on water or sheltered banks at night. Their foraging strategy involves dabbling and head-dipping, often submerging their long necks to reach aquatic vegetation on the bottom, or grazing on emergent plants and...
The Black Swan is endemic to Australia, where its native range spans the southeastern and southwestern regions, including Tasmania and parts of northern Australia. It exhibits a nomadic rather than truly migratory pattern, making extensive movements across inland areas in response to drought and ...
Least Concern
- The term 'Black Swan event' was popularized by Nassim Nicholas Taleb, referring to highly improbable, high-impact events that are retrospectively rationalized. - Despite its name, the Black Swan actually has white primary and secondary flight feathers, which are strikingly visible when it takes...