What Swans Do With Their Heads Underwater

This week Britain’s BBO Wildlife Trust shared a glimpse into the underwater world of swans and ducks.

Mute swans have such long necks that they can feed on the bottom while floating on the surface. Ducks have to dive.

While the swan is feeding tufted ducks come and go, their bodies so buoyant that their feet must flap continuously to keep them submerged.

If this had been filmed in North America they would be our own species: tundra swans and ring-necked ducks.

(video from Jack Perks via BBO Wildlife Trust)

3 thoughts on “What Swans Do With Their Heads Underwater

  1. I LOVED watching the little feet of the ducks flapping so quickly compared to the swan’s “floop….floop” paddling. That was great, Kate.

  2. Hi, thanks for the information.

    I have a question:
    Why white swans have a colourless neck?
    Can it be because they constantly have to put their heads under water?

    Best wishes,

    Mahin

    1. I’m guessing that you’re asking why white swans sometimes have COLORED necks sometimes (rather than “colourless” as in your message). Swan necks become a rusty color when they feed in muddy water.

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