Quick answer
Swans (Cygnus olor) are birds found across Europe, Asia. The graceful giant of lakes and rivers. Adults typically weigh 10–12 kg (22–26 lb), reach speeds of up to 80 km/h (50 mph), and live About 10 years (up to 20+). They feed on herbivore (aquatic plants, grasses, grain) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Lakes, rivers, and coasts across Europe and temperate Asia; widely introduced to North America.
Key takeaway
Swans (Cygnus olor) are birds found across Europe, Asia. The graceful giant of lakes and rivers. Adults typically weigh 10–12 kg (22–26 lb), reach speeds of up to 80 km/h (50 mph), and live About 10 years (up to 20+). They feed on herbivore (aquatic plants, grasses, grain) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Lakes, rivers, and coasts across Europe and temperate Asia; widely introduced to North America.
Swan overview
Swan (Cygnus olor) is a bird listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight 10–12 kg (22–26 lb); lifespan around About 10 years (up to 20+).
Swan ecology
Diet: Herbivore (aquatic plants, grasses, grain). Habitat: Lakes, rivers, ponds, estuaries. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Swans and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild swans are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Swan profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Swans inhabit Lakes, rivers, and coasts across Europe and temperate Asia; widely introduced to North America. Resident across the UK. Their preferred habitat includes lakes, rivers, ponds, estuaries, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence ac
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult swans typically measure about 1.5 m in length and weigh 10–12 kg (22–26 lb). They can sprint at up to 80 km/h (50 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Swans are known for the graceful giant of lakes and rivers — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Swan FAQs
What are key facts about swans?
Swans (Cygnus olor) are birds found across Europe, Asia. The graceful giant of lakes and rivers. Adults typically weigh 10–12 kg (22–26 lb), reach speeds of up to 80 km/h (50 mph), and live About 10 years (up to 20+). They feed on herbivore (aquatic plants, grasses, grain) and are listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Lakes, rivers, and coasts across Europe and temperate Asia; widely introduced to North America.
What is the scientific name of the swan?
Cygnus olor — used in research and conservation listings for swans.
What do swans eat?
Swans eat aquatic plants, grasses and grain, with seasonal and regional variation in Lakes, rivers, ponds, estuaries.
Where do swans live?
They are associated with Lakes, rivers, ponds, estuaries. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of swans?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.