The Black Swan has always been closely associated with this district, especially Connewarre, which takes its name from an Aboriginal word meaning Black Swan. Here, and in the wetlands of Breamlea, they can be seen in large numbers, and in pairs at the estuary of Spring Creek. They feed mostly on water plants and pasture grass, grazing at the edges of swamps and lakes.

They breed opportunistically, sometimes in colonies. The nest is a large mound of aquatic vegetation, up to two meters across and lined with down. It is built on the edge of the water or on an island of reeds and rushes within the water body. It lays four to nine pale green eggs. The beautiful trumpet like call can often be heard as small flocks fly high at night.

Size: 910mm

Photo and Illustration: Mark Trinham