Provide lots of straw and shavings for the birds to cover the eggs. Clutch sizes vary from three to seven eggs and are incubated by only the pen for about 36 days. The male stands guard over the nest while she sets, sometimes going days before leaving to eat. The cygnets are whitish-gray, with a black bill and feet. Black-necked Swans are great parents if allowed to rear their young.
Some breeders choose to remove the cygnets to allow the pair to double clutch.
As mentioned, the immatures will gain their adult plumage the second year, but many will not breed until they are three or four. General Comments Black-necked Swans are highly prized aviary birds. They have a good temperment, which means keeping them with other waterfowl is possible. Pairs may squabble during the breeding season, so allow only one pair per area. They are more delicate than other swans, and winter shelter must be provided.