Cygnus columbianus bewickii, commonly known as the Bewick's Swan, is a subspecies of the tundra swan found primarily in Eurasia. This large bird belongs to the family Anatidae and is characterized by its graceful appearance and unique features.
The Bewick's Swan has a distinctive appearance with its long and slender neck, a characteristic curved bill, and elegant white plumage. Its adults can measure between 115 to 150 centimeters in length and have a wingspan of approximately 180 to 210 centimeters. One of the key distinguishing features of this subspecies is the yellow and black bill, which has a triangular marking at the base.
These swans are migratory birds, often undertaking long-distance journeys in search of suitable breeding and wintering grounds. They breed in the Arctic tundra regions of Russia and migrate southwest to countries in Western Europe, such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and the Netherlands, during the winter. Their migration routes often involve crossing various nations along the way.
Bewick's Swans are herbivorous birds, primarily feeding on aquatic plants, grasses, and occasionally small invertebrates found in wetlands, lakes, and rivers. During the breeding season, they construct nest mounds made of vegetation in marshy areas close to water bodies. These swans are typically monogamous, forming long-term pair bonds, and the female lays a clutch of 3 to 5 eggs, which are incubated by both parents for around a month.
Due to habitat loss and hunting pressures, the Bewick's Swan population has faced some conservation concerns. Conservation efforts, including the protection of nesting and wintering areas, have been implemented to ensure the survival and well-being of this beautiful migratory species.
