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The whooper swan is a large white swan with a black and yellow bill that lives in Iceland, northern Europe, and Asia. This particular flock was found on Lake Kushiro in Japan.
Though not the largest of swan species, the whooper swan is still quite sizable, ranging from 4.6 to 5.6 feet and weighing anywhere from 18 to 44 pounds. Wingspans vary but are usually between 6.75 and 9.2 feet.
Despite their massive size, whoopers are excellent fliers. They are often labeled as one of the world’s heaviest flying birds and undertake what is probably the largest sea crossing of any swan species, migrating an astounding 500 to 870 miles between the United Kingdom and Iceland!
On a wildlife-related note regarding polar bears, please add your comments to the USFWS Draft Polar Bear Conservation Management Plan. Click here for the current plan.
Be sure to download your free copy of Calm Waters with this month's calendar attached. You can also license or purchase a product featuring Calm Waters.
Join us on the 2016 Japan Winter Wildlife Photography Tour to photograph whooper swans, red-crowned cranes, Steller's sea eagles, and the playful "hot-tubbing" snow monkeys!
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