ID Tips & tricks

Here are a few extra tips to help you identify swans

ID TIP! Only Mute Swans make the distinctive, loud whistling sounds from the wings in flight (the other two prefer to honk!) An unusual photograph showing all three swan species side by side, allowing direct comparison of size, shape, and bill shape and pattern, between: Whooper Swan (left) Mute Swan (centre), and Bewick's Swan (right) Mute Swan • Very large, long-necked white swan • Black lores • Pinky-orange bill with black ‘knob’ at base, larger in males • Usually holds neck in ‘graceful’ curve when swimming • Uniquely, often holds wings above body • Voice a mix of odd ‘sneezy’ notes and nasal whistles Whooper Swan • Very large, long-necked white swan • Yellow lores • Angular basal yellow patch on triangular black bill; no bill ‘knob’ • Usually holds…

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Bird Watching (Digital) - 1 Issue, January 2025

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