Black swan

A black swam is seen in a Bao'an park. Photos by Isaac Cohen

The black swan

The black swan (Cygnus atratus) is a unique bird species native to Australia. Known for its distinctive black plumage and bright red bill, the black swan is a popular subject for photographers and birdwatchers alike.

黑天鹅原产于澳大利亚，全身漆黑，喙色鲜红，体态优雅，深受摄影与观鸟爱好者的喜爱。

This astonishing animal is a large bird with a wingspan of up to 2 meters and a weight of up to 9 kilograms. Its black feathers are iridescent in the sunlight, giving the bird a shimmering appearance. The bill of the black swan is bright red, and its eyes are deep red.

黑天鹅体型较大，翼展可达2米，体重可达9千克。全身羽毛呈辉黑结构色，在阳光下光彩照人，喙鲜红色，虹膜暗红色。

Black swans are found in various wetland habitats, including rivers, lakes, and estuaries. They are also commonly found in parks and gardens, as in Shenzhen, where they have been introduced. The species is a herbivore, feeding on various aquatic vegetation, including algae and grasses.

黑天鹅喜湿地环境，常见于河流、湖泊及河流出海口，在深圳也作为常见的引进观赏鸟饲养于市政公园或花园。属草食性，主要拣食藻类、水草等水生植物。

A close-up look at the bright red bill of a black swam in Bao'an.

In addition to their striking appearance, black swans are known for their social behavior. They are monogamous and form strong pair bonds, often remaining with the same mate for several years. During the breeding season, the birds perform elaborate courtship displays, including head-bobbing, wing-flapping, and synchronized swimming.

黑天鹅的行为具有显著的社会性。它们属一夫一妻制，伴侣关系密切，往往可持续数年之久。黑天鹅在繁殖期还有特殊的求偶行为，雌雄鸟之间会通过点头行礼、舞动翅膀、携手同游等方式，以示自己觅得佳偶。

Two black swams are seen bobbing their heads during courtship in Bao'an.

While the black swan is not considered endangered, protecting the species and its habitat is still essential. Wetlands are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and climate change, and efforts to conserve these ecosystems are critical for the survival of many species.

虽然黑天鹅的生存并不受威胁，我们依然要保护它们和它们赖以生存的湿地不受栖息地丧失、人类污染和气候变化的危害。保护湿地生态系统，对维护深圳的物种多样性至关重要。