The Mute Swan is undoubtedly the most easily recognised bird on Lake Geneva. With a wingspan of up to 2.40 m and a weight of over 12 kg, it is one of Europe's largest breeding birds. What's more, it's hard to miss its white feathers, majestic appearance and sometimes capricious temperament.
Although the swan has very few predators, it feeds mainly on aquatic plants and the micro-organisms that take refuge in them, which it can reach with its long neck by diving to depths of up to 1m! This is why swans prefer shallow areas rich in submerged vegetation. Very unafraid, they are present all year round, in large reedbeds as well as on urbanised banks.
You might think, given its ubiquitous presence on the banks of lakes and rivers, that it has always reigned over Lake Geneva, but this is not the case. Originally from Asia and Scandinavia, it was introduced to Lake Geneva and throughout Central Europe as an ornamental bird in the early 19th century. An engraving dating from 1802 even proves that the swan was indeed present in Geneva at that time. These birds were already present in European courts almost a century earlier.
Symbols of peace and harmony, Mute Swans are admired for their parade of heart-shaped necks. However, this apparent tranquillity can quickly be disturbed if they are disturbed. During the breeding season, swans are very territorial with any intruder who gets too close to the nest or the chicks. It is not uncommon to see them puffing out their plumage and whistling as they pounce on the intruder. The intruder may be another swan, a bird of prey, a dog or even a human.
Photo : Alexis Pochelon
