Welney, Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust WWT

5 months old

Whooper Swan

Mute Swan

Not everyone flies Ryanair!

A Whooper Swan similar to the Berwick swan but it is bigger and the Berwick 

Whooper Swan amongst the Pochard ducks

It takes a good eye to tell the difference between the Bewick swans and the Whooper swans. Bewicks are smaller and their black beaks sport a small yellow blob, rather than the Whooper's extended yellow wedge. I have discovered that  these yellow and black beak patterns have been extensively studied and illustrated over the years and are unique to each swan.   I am no expert on Swans and may have incorrectly identified them.  I am sure someone will let me know and that would be great!