The Black Swan is commonly seen in captivity and is only surpassed in popularity by the related Mute Swan. Seen not only in private collections, but in city parks and large zoos, the Black Swan is native Australia and Tasmania. The populations on New Zealand are introduced. Black Swans are large, graceful birds. Both sexes are black with bright red bills that sport a white band, gray feet and legs and white primaries that are seen only in flight.
Immature swans are quite different in appearance, being dull brown overall with a dark bill.
The nest is built near the water's edge, usually in a large mound of grasses and reeds. To simulate this, provide lots of straw and weeds. If the swans decide to nest during the Winter, it is a good idea to remove the eggs and place them in an incubator to prevent freezing. The clutch consists of 5 to 8 seven large greenish eggs that are incubated by both parents for about 36 days. Swan parents will defend their nest and young ferociously, so it would be a good idea if you have visitors to your farm, to keep the swans penned and be careful yourself when doing your daily maintenance.