The black swan was first introduced to New Zealand in the mid-late 1860's from Australia, for game purposes.  They are very large black swans.  The bill is crimson red with a white tip and white bar at the tip of the bill.  White wing tips are conspicuous in flight.  The juvenile is a greyish brown with a dull red bill.  They trumpet, hiss and whistle and are generally quite vocal, especially at night.

The diet is mainly aquatic vegetation, some invertebrates, and they also graze pastures.

Breeding is July-October sometimes longer depending on the climate.  The clutch of 4-10 eggs is incubated by both the male and the female for about 35 days.

Not seen on Tiri in recent years.

Photography by: Max McRae © (left and bottom right) and  Simon Fordham © (top right)

References: Heather, B.D.; Robertson, H.A. 2000 The Field Guide to the Birds of New Zealand. Auckland, Viking.
Moon, G The Reed Field Guide to New Zealand Birds.