Mute Swan
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Anseriformes, Family: Anatidae, Genus: Cygnus, Species: Cygnus olor · Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans) · Semiplume / Small Contour Feather
Species
Cygnus olor
Feather Type
Semiplume / Small Contour Feather
Family
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans)
Shape
Symmetrical, broad, and rounded at the tip with a wispy, tapered base.
Size
Approximately 4-6 cm (1.5-2.5 inches) in length; consistent with body contour or semiplume feathers found on the neck or breast.
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most frequently encountered large waterfowl in the United Kingdom.
Color & Pattern
Pure snowy white across the entire vane and rachis. There are no markings, banding, or iridescence, which is typical for adult Mute Swans.
Barb Structure
Mixed: The distal (top) part is pennaceous but loose, while the proximal (bottom) part is highly plumulaceous (downy) for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Extremely soft, silky, and lightweight. The surface has a matte appearance with a slightly oily/waxy coating (preen oil) for water repellency.
Description
A magnificent, large white waterfowl with a long S-shaped neck and an orange bill with a black knob. Adult plumage is entirely white. This small feather is a tiny part of the 25,000+ feathers that insulate these 10-12kg birds.
Key Features
Pure white color, small size, prominent downy base for insulation, and lack of any pigment or structural color patterns.
Habitat
Common in Cornwall's lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and coastal estuaries. They prefer areas with abundant submerged aquatic vegetation.
Geographic Range
Native to Euro-Siberia; extremely common resident throughout the British Isles including Cornwall. Generally non-migratory but may move to coastal waters in harsh winters.
Condition Notes
Good condition; likely a naturally molted feather. The slight fraying at the tip suggests it may have been shed during a regular molt cycle.
Interesting Facts
Mute Swans are famous for 'busking' (raising their wings in a threat display). In the UK, they are historically associated with the Crown, and the Monarch retains a right of ownership over all unmarked mute swans in open water.
Ecological Role
Primary herbivore in aquatic ecosystems; they control aquatic weed growth but can be aggressive toward other waterfowl during nesting season.
Similar Species
Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus) feathers are identical but the bird is a winter visitor; white domestic goose feathers are similar but often stiffer; White Egret feathers are more elongated.
Notes
Cornwall