Whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus) हुंकारने वाला हंस

Whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus) हुंकारने वाला हंस - Birds Around Me 0187

- January 04, 2026

The Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus) is one of the most majestic waterfowl of the Northern Hemisphere. The term Whooper comes from the bird’s whooping call, often described as a deep, bugling or trumpet‑like sound. Known for its elegance and powerful presence, this large swan measures up to 150 cm in length with a wingspan of nearly 2.5 meters, making it one of the largest flying birds.

Whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus) हुंकारने वाला हंस
Iceland, July 2025

Its plumage is entirely white, contrasting beautifully with its long neck and distinctive yellow‑and‑black bill. Unlike the Mute Swan, which has an orange bill and a characteristic knob, the Whooper Swan’s straight bill and clear yellow patch are reliable identification features.

The Whooper Swan breeds across the sub‑Arctic regions of Eurasia, nesting near lakes, rivers, and wetlands. During winter, it migrates south to more temperate areas, including parts of Europe, East Asia, and occasionally northern India. These migrations are spectacular, with flocks flying in V‑formations and producing loud, trumpeting calls that carry over long distances.

Every year, thousands of Whooper Swans (Cygnus cygnus) gather in Iceland, making the island one of the most important strongholds for this majestic species. Iceland is unique because it hosts nearly the entire breeding population of Whooper Swans that later migrate to the UK, Ireland, and parts of continental Europe for the winter.

Whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus) हुंकारने वाला हंस
Iceland, July 2025

During spring and summer, Iceland’s wetlands, lakes, and river valleys provide ideal nesting habitats. The swans build large nests close to water, where pairs raise their cygnets. Their presence is so significant that Icelandic place names such as Álftanes (“Swan Peninsula”) and Álftavatn (“Swan Lake”) reflect the deep cultural and ecological connection between the swan and the land.

Birdwatchers visiting Iceland in summer are treated to spectacular sights: elegant white swans gliding across glacial lakes, their loud trumpeting calls echoing across valleys. In autumn, migration begins, with flocks flying in V‑formations, a breathtaking natural spectacle.

The Whooper Swan is celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its symbolism. In folklore and poetry, it represents purity, fidelity, and endurance. Though currently listed as Least Concern, conservation of Iceland’s wetlands remains crucial, as these habitats sustain thousands of swans and other migratory birds.

Whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus) हुंकारने वाला हंस
Iceland, July 2025

Pairs form strong lifelong bonds, and both parents share responsibilities in raising their cygnets. Their diet consists mainly of aquatic vegetation, grasses, and occasionally small invertebrates.

Conservation status is currently Least Concern, though habitat loss and wetland degradation pose threats. Protecting migratory routes and breeding grounds remains essential for sustaining populations.

Hindi Name of Whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus): हुंकारने वाला हंस

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