Royal Mute Swans in mating ritual – video frame captured with Canon XH-A1 – [See video below]
The cold and short days of winter are now replaced by the warmer and longer days of spring. And with springtime comes love. 'Tis the season of courtship and mating and when the nesting real estate is in high-demand. The following video is a celebration of the spring arrival. The Royal Mute Swans mating ritual starts with a gentle courtship by dunking their heads and blowing bubbles in the water. As some of the heaviest birds in the world, mute swan adults may reach weights of 30 pounds. As the male climbs on top, he pulls her neck above the water, thus ensuring she's not drowning under his weight. As they reach maximum excitement you hear them expressing great pleasure by whistling and snorting. Their mating ritual ends in a charming display, with synchronous moves, cheek to cheek and 'walking' the water.
Video Footage of the Royal Mute Swan mating ritual Technical Notes: Filmed in HDV 1080i format
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
I love the picture. Right now I'm studing birds and alsow I'm wrighting about the mute swan. Thanks
Hi Tessa, thanks much for your feedback. Birds are a such great subject to study. All the best
Hi. Interesting video. I am writing a short story about 2 mute swans. I have been gathering information for the story and ran across your video. Just wanted to say thank you.PC
Hi PC,Thanks for your feedback. Hope your story will turn out great.
All the best.
lbury Swamp, east of Carrying Place, had SWAMP SPARROW, YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, SHARP-SHINNED HAWK, RED-TAILED HAWK and NORTHERN FLICKER on the 20th. Three dead GREAT BLUE HERONS at Essroc Cement, near Picton, on the 15th has raised some concern as to what may have killed these birds, although it may be nothing more than coincidence. One of the birds was found in the quarry, while another may have hit hydro lines.