Coscoroba swan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Swans |
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| A coscoroba swan (Coscoroba coscoroba) | |
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Anserinae
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Coscoroba
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The coscoroba swan (Coscoroba coscoroba) is a special type of bird. It looks a lot like the swans you might be familiar with, but it's actually a distant relative. Some bird experts even think it's more like a duck, similar to whistling ducks.
This unique swan lives in South America. You can find it in southern Chile and central Argentina. It also lives further south in Tierra del Fuego and the Falkland Islands.
What is a Coscoroba Swan?
The coscoroba swan is a beautiful white bird. It has a bright red bill and pinkish-red legs. Unlike "true" swans, it's a bit smaller and has a slightly different body shape. It's the only species in its group, called the Coscoroba genus.
Where They Live
Coscoroba swans prefer areas with water. They live in lagoons, marshes, and lakes. These birds are often seen in open, grassy wetlands. They like places where they can find plenty of plants to eat.
Family Connections
Even though it's called a swan, the coscoroba swan has some interesting family ties. Recent studies looking at their genes show that they are related to the Cape Barren goose (Cereopsis novaehollandiae). This means they share a common ancestor. They are considered "sister groups," which is like saying they are very close cousins in the bird family tree.
Images for kids
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A coscoroba swan flying
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Young coscoroba swans in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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A coscoroba swan taking a bath at Weltvogelpark Walsrode
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A coscoroba swan at Berlin Zoo, Germany
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See also
In Spanish: Cisne coscoroba para niños
