Mute Swan
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Anseriformes, Family: Anatidae, Genus: Cygnus, Species: Cygnus olor · Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans) · Contour (Body feather)
Species
Cygnus olor
Feather Type
Contour (Body feather)
Family
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans)
Shape
Symmetrical, broad, and spatulate with a rounded tip; significantly curved laterally.
Size
Estimated 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) in length; broad width typical for large waterfowl body plumage.
Rarity
Common (Abundant and widespread in its naturalized and native ranges).
Color & Pattern
Pure snowy white with no melanin-based markings; the rachis is translucent-white; ventral and dorsal surfaces are identical in color.
Barb Structure
Transition from plumulaceous (downy) at the base to pennaceous (interlocked) at the tip; contains dense, water-repellent barbicels.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, slightly oily/waxy for waterproofing in the pennaceous section; extremely soft and wispy at the downy base.
Description
A magnificent pure white feather from a majestic large waterfowl known for its S-shaped neck and orange bill with a black knob. These birds are large, reaching weights up to 26 lbs with a wingspan of 7-8 feet.
Key Features
Pure white color, distinct curvature of the rachis, and the large ratio of downy barbs at the base compared to smaller waterfowl.
Habitat
Lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and coastal lagoons; prefers both freshwater and brackish habitats.
Geographic Range
Native to Eurasia; widely introduced and naturalized across North America, South Africa, and Australia.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition; appears freshly molted with no visible parasite damage or fault bars.
Interesting Facts
Mute Swans are generally silent but can hiss or bark; they are known for mating for life and the classic heart-shape formed by their necks during courtship.
Ecological Role
High-level herbivore; consumes large amounts of aquatic vegetation; serves as a flagship species for wetland conservation.
Similar Species
Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator) and Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus). Distinguishable primarily by bird habitat and range, as the feathers are visually identical.