| Black Swan | ||||||||||||||
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| Binomial name | ||||||||||||||
| Cygnus atratus |
The Black Swan (Cygnus atratus) is an Australian waterbird and the official state bird of Western Australia.
This bird is a member of the duck, goose and swan family Anatidae.
Black swans are found in all states of Australia. The adult bird weighs up to 20 pounds. Unlike many other waterbirds black swans are not migratory, staying in the area where they were clutched for their entire life.
Black Swans nest on large mounds that they build in the middle of a shallow lake. They reuse the same nest each year, restoring or rebuilding it as needed. Male and female swans share the care of the nest, and once the cygnets are fledged it's not uncommon to see whole families looking for food.
Black Swans nesting