Black-necked Swan
![Black-necked Swan carrying 3 cygnets](https://www.waterfowl.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/001h-Carrying-cygnets-both-sexes-FST-1024x789.jpg)
![Black-necked Swan cygnets](https://www.waterfowl.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Bneck-signets-copy-1024x770.jpg)
Cygnus melancoryphus
Black-necked Swans are highly ornamental but not abundant in wildfowl collections. The largest of South American waterfowl, the Black-necked Swan is defined by its white plumage and velvety black head and neck. It has a striking blue bill with large bright red knob or caruncle at its base.
The Black-necked Swan has a soft musical whistle. It is less aggressive than its closest relatives the Mute or Black Swan, however they are known to be particularly intolerant of European Shelducks.
![Face of a Black-necked Swan](https://www.waterfowl.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Black-necked-swan-face-MJ-1024x924.jpg)
These swans spend the majority of their time on the water; with legs set far back on their body for greater efficiency, so they are ungainly on land. The swans’ natural habitat is fresh water marshes, lagoons and shores.
Black-necked Swans frequently lay two clutches of 4-6 eggs a season, incubating for 36 days. After hatching, the young are often carried, by either parent.