Mute swan

(Cyguns olor)

Mute swans are a feral species of swan that were introduced by European immigrants and now have large populations on the east coast and in the Great Lakes. They are aggressive toward both people and other wildlife and outcompete native species for resources.

• Wingspan: 7-8 feet long
• Height: 4 feet high
• Weight: 25-30 pounds/average

Overview

The mute swan (Cygnus olor) is a species of swan that is non-native to North America. This swan is native to Eurasia and was introduced into North America in the late 1800s by European immigrants seeking to add a familiar wildlife species to their gardens and ponds. This is the swan that typically is featured in artwork and folklore. As with many introduced species, the mute swan has established feral populations that continue to expand westward across North America competing with native wildlife and negatively impacting aquatic vegetation. The mute swan is not federally protected and considered an invasive species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.