Mute swan (Cygnus olor) preening. Preening birds apply the secretion of their preen (or uropygial) gland to their feathers. The waterproofing provided by the secreted mixture of wax and fatty acids is vital to water birds. Mute swans live in and around lakes and rivers in Europe,parts of Asia and North America. Their long necks allow them to feed on water plants and invertebrates in deep water. Mute swans pair for life,and mate each year. Despite their name,they often make hissing and grunting noises. Photographed in the UK | |
Licence : | Droits gérés |
Crédit: | Science Photo Library / Chillmaid, Martyn F. |
Taille de l’image : | 3445 px × 5099 px |
Model Release : | Non requis |
Property Release : | Non requis |
Restrictions : | - |