Biopark map
The map allows you to quickly view where the educational spaces with the various animals are located. The areas of it are sensitive, that is, if you pass over them and the little hand appears, you will be able to access the affected area easily and directly.
Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
Diffusion and habitat
Migratory species, it spends the summer in Northern Europe and Asia (reproduces above the 55th parallel)
and summer on the coasts of southern Europe, North Africa, Japan and China. Monogamous species.
Morphological characteristics
It is distinguished by its yellow beak with a black base and its greater wingspan (about 250 cm).
Bird of considerable size and with a proud bearing.
Male and female are practically identical. The plumage is pure white, the beak is orange with a
light black border 8at the base has a black fleshy swelling larger in the male).
Young swans have gray plumage and a greenish-grey bill. As they grow they gradually take on the
coloration of adults.
It measures approximately 1.6 meters (wingspan approximately 230 cm; average weight 15-20 kg).
Nutrition and behavior
In Italy it is not particularly widespread in the free state. It loves humid areas rich in vegetation (in
particular reeds). It adapts very well to captivity and is also easily tamable. The diet is a
base of small fish, molluscs, seeds and sprouts that it finds in water by immersing its long neck. In
in captivity it is fed with grains (or specific pelleted feed) supplemented with fruit and vegetables
fresh.
For the breeding of swans it is essential to have a pond or a body of water
adequate dimensions. He is an excellent flyer even if taking off is a bit laborious. Like all swans it is one
monogamous species (even in captivity). Especially during the courtship period (very spectacular)
his character becomes very aggressive towards anyone who invades his territory. Couples are formed in
late autumn. The nest is built near the ponds, well protected by vegetation. There
In spring, the female lays 5 to 8 eggs (with greyish shells) which she incubates for around 35 days. At birth
the little ones are already able to swim and are lovingly cared for by their parents who often carry them
on the back.
