Coscoroba Swan Factfile
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Scientific Name : Coscoroba coscoroba
World Distribution
Coscoroba swans are found in an area stretching from southern Brazil down to the southern tip of South America.
Habitat
Like most swans, they live in wetlands - either lakes or swamps. They like water which has plenty of plants and grasses growing in and around it, because they build their nests in clumps of vegetation.
Feeding
They feed mainly on grass and water plants, but also eat mussels, oysters and small fish. Some of their food is obtained by straining minute plants and animals out of the water - sucking in beakfuls of water and squeezing it out. This makes a sort of clattering sound.
Predators
Young swans in particular are in danger from birds of prey and gulls. Llike all swans, coscoroba swans defend their young fiercely.
Breeding
When they are 2 or 3 years old, coscoroba swans choose a mate after taking part in courtship displays, during which they stretch out their wingsin a sort of dance and call to each other. They then make a nest in a clump of grass or reeds, and the female lays her eggs. She keeps the eggs warm without the help of her mate, but he will help to protect the chicks when they hatch out. The chicks can swim and feed themselves very soon after hatching.