Whooper Swan
Cygnus cygnus
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Overview
Whooper Swans are winter visitors from Iceland — they fly direct across the Atlantic to reach the UK. The Sefton Coast is within range of the Ribble Valley wintering sites and birds can be seen around Crossens and Hesketh Out Marsh. Larger and more upright-necked than Mute Swan, with a distinctive yellow and black bill rather than orange. The loud bugling call is quite different from a Mute Swan.
At a Glance
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Habitat | Coastal marsh · Flooded fields · Lagoon |
| Diet | Aquatic plants, grass, grain |
| UK population | Around 15,000 wintering birds from Iceland |
| Sefton Coast | Small numbers most winters; check Crossens Marsh and surrounding fields |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Hesketh Out Marsh and Crossens Marsh. Occasionally Marshside RSPB lagoons.
Identification
Large white swan. Yellow triangular bill patch extending to nostril — key feature. Holds neck straight and upright (not curved). Loud bugling call.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Check any swan flock in winter for yellow-billed birds. The call is very different from Mute Swan — a loud trumpeting 'whoop'.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell Whooper Swan from Mute Swan?
Bill colour and shape are the key differences. Whooper Swan has a yellow and black bill — the yellow forms a triangular patch extending to the nostril. Mute Swan has an orange bill with a black knob at the base. Whooper also holds its neck straighter (Mute curves it), and calls loudly (Mute is largely silent in flight).
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.