Whooper Swans Holiday Cards

Whooper swans by Jan Smit

In flight, some swans make a thrumming sound with their wings; the wingbeats of the whooper swan (Cygnus cygnus) are silent—despite its nearly eight-foot wingspan—but it is known as one of the most musical swan species. A special tracheal formation makes whoopers’ varied vocalizations possible, including its namesake whoop-whoop while aloft. Its melodious calls often sound mournful to human ears, calling to mind somber notes of farewell.

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