Feathered Friends Charm Page

Swans

Males swans are called cobs and the females are called pens. Swans have grey or brown feathers until they’re about two years old, but they grow up to become the most beautiful of all water fowl. Adult swans usually have pure white feathers and a long, graceful neck. There are actually black swans as well as white swans. Swans form nests near the water’s edge made of mats of reeds and plants. When the babies, known as cygnets, are born, they can swim immediately. Swans can sleep on either land or the water and have the option of sleeping while standing on one leg or while floating in the water. Often seen gliding across lakes, the swan has long represented elegance and refinement. There have even been popular fairy tales written about swans. This majestic and beautiful animal is often associated with peace, serenity and grace. Many people like to feed swans at the park. It is recommended to feed them pieces of fresh bread because mould is quite poisonous to these animals Believe it or not, despite popular belief, swans can actually fly. They are among the largest flying birds out there and need about 30 yards to become airborne.

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