The 'black swan' as you nicknamed is indeed a separate species introduced
as an exotic from Australia. They are very similar to Mute Swans in shape.
Cool bird. Unlike Mute Swans, I believe Black Swans have not established
feral breeding populations -YET.

Cheers,
Frode Jacobsen
Windsor Mill, Md 21244



> I was at the mud flats 2-3pm today. The view was pretty magnificent:
> 100+ Tundra Swans resting on their way north.
> On the edge was a larger swan more like a mute swan - but this one was
> total black with a beautiful red beak.
>
> I have little experience with swans and this was a 1st for me. I have read
> about 'black swans'. Is this is a seperate species or a mute swan ssp.?
>
> Regardless it was pretty beautiful. I wonder if they'll still be there
> tommorow.
>
> Also seen:
> Canvasback 8
> Canada Geese 10
> American Wigeon 4
> American Black Duck 10
> Ring-Necked Duck 10
>
> Mordechai
>
>


-- 
Frode Jacobsen
PhD Candidate
Department of Biological Sciences
University of Maryland Baltimore County
1000 Hilltop Circle
Baltimore, MD 21250

Phone: 410-455-1704
email: