Bewick's Swan - Cygnus columbianus
The smallest swan in the UK. It has more black on its bill than Mute and Whooper Swans and is considerably smaller and more like a goose in shape.
Similar to Whooper Swan which is larger and has more yellow on the bill
Found mainly in eastern England, around the Severn estuary and in Lancashire with concentrations at the Ouse and Nene Washes (Cambridgeshire), Martin Mere (Lancashire) and Slimbridge (Gloucestershire).
The Bewick's Swan arrives in Britain in mid-October after spending the breeding season in Siberia and leaves around March.
Feeds on leaves, shoots and roots.
Although increasingly threatened by loss of habitat and man's activities, there are significant numbers in the UK. It is on the Amber List.
Occasional winter visitor to Leicestershire and Rutland.
Leicestershire & Rutland Map
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