The coscoroba swan is a species of waterfowl in the subfamily Anserinae of the family Anatidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, and the Falkland Islands.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Found from southern Chile and Argentina north to Uruguay, Paraguay, and southern Brazil, with a presence in the Falkland Islands. Prefers shallow freshwater and brackish wetlands including lagoons, marshes, and slow-moving backwaters. Uses reedbeds and grassy islets for nesting, building bulky mounds of vegetation near or over water. In nonbreeding seasons it may shift to coastal marshes, estuaries, and flooded pampas. It generally avoids fast-flowing rivers and deep, open water.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The coscoroba swan is the smallest of the swans and is placed in its own genus, Coscoroba, showing traits intermediate between true swans and geese/whistling-ducks. Its name comes from its loud, resonant 'cos-cor-oba' call. Pairs are strongly territorial during breeding, but outside the season they gather in sizeable flocks. They have striking white plumage with contrasting black wingtips visible in flight.
In flight
Temperament
territorial during breeding, otherwise moderately gregarious
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats; flies low over water
Social Behavior
Forms long-term monogamous pairs that defend nesting territories vigorously. Nests are large mounds of vegetation placed on islets or anchored in emergent plants; the male often guards while the female incubates. Outside the breeding season they gather in loose flocks, sometimes mixing with other waterfowl. Family groups remain together for a time after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations include a loud, trumpeting 'cos-cor-oba' that carries over wetlands. Pairs may duet, with the female’s call higher-pitched. Calls are used to maintain contact and signal alarm.
