Tundra Swan

Overview

Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus) is a species of Ducks, Geese, Swans (Anatidae) in the order Waterfowl (Ducks, Geese and Swans). A white swan smaller than the whooper, with a mostly black bill and small yellow patch; breeds on arctic tundra and winters on lakes and coasts; a graceful long-distance migrant.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Cygnus; binomial: Cygnus columbianus; authority: (Ord, 1815). Typical size: 115-150cm. Average lifespan: 10-20 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: the Palearctic and the Nearctic. Non-breeding range: s PAL and s, c NA.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

Tundra Swan was formerly treated as two species: the North American race with at most a small yellow spot at the base of the bill, as Whistling Swan, Cygnus columbianus; and the Eurasian race, with a large yellow patch at the base of the bill, as Bewick’s Swan, C. bewickii. Currently treated as conspecific (AOU 1983).