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 Whooper Swan L 155, W 215. Nests in northernmost Europe on large tussocks in swamps and tundra lakes. In recent years has begun to nest, uncommonly and locally, further and further south. Habitually very shy at breeding site, but the recent new colonists in the south considerably more fearless than those in the north. In winter usually along the coasts as well as on larger lakes and watercourses, may often graze on land. Swims with upright neck and never raises its wings like Mute Swan. This makes both it and Bewick's Swan quite easy to distinguish from Mute, even at longer range. When it up-ends the shorter, blunter tail is obvious. At close range the yellow on the bill, more extensive than in Bewick's Swan, can be seen. Immature distinguished from immature Mute Swan by even more yellow bill, more pale and cold grey colour, paler bill (largely greywhite) and by the silhouette, from immature Bewick's by size. Has far-carrying call with melancholy tone, like blasts on a bugle. The commonest flight call consists of three short blasts in rapid succession, 'klo-klo-klo'. When resting on the water, the Whooper often spins out the notes, sings. A chorus of large flocks is striking. No singing noise from the wings as in Mute Swan (only a slight and ordinary swishing. W
 An
excellent pocket reference book for recognising
birds is the Hamlyn Guide to Birds of Britain
and Europe, which is a comprehensive reference
guide to Britain and mainland Europe's plethora
of ornithological life.
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