Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/35/Mute_swan_Vrhnika.jpg < image reference at this link.

The Mute swan is one of Britain's most majestic, and beautiful birds, and is Britain's resident species of Swan.
The Mute Swan is Britain's largest breeding bird, and once paired with another swan, they are mated for life, unless one of the mates dies however, in which case the active member of the pair can seek another mate to breed with.

http://warehouse1.indicia.org.uk/upload/Swan6_Watermead_2May05.JPG < image reference at this link.

Mute Swans are easy to identify amongst other Swans, as they have a large size, and feature an orange bill, with a black knob situated above.
The Swan is often associated with British winter, and the British Monarchy claims 'ownership' over every Swan in the country.
This association with Royal themes mean that this creature is embedded into British culture.

http://www.davidplantphotography.co.uk/British%20birds/Mute%20swan/slides/Mute%20swan%20in%20flight%20-%20C.jpg < image reference at this link.

The birds have large wings in order to support them as they fly, and reside often near lakes, ponds, rivers, and other bodies of water.
Male swans are highly territorial, and despite their name, they hiss, and can produce loud deterring sounds to warn off animals coming into their space.

http://www.animalsculpture.co.uk/Mute%20swan%20landing.jpg < image reference at this link.

I want to add the Mute swan into my zine, as they are a large part of British national identity, and they are also very beautiful and majestic birds.
I have the feeling that I will enjoy illustrating them for my zine, and they would be an interesting creature to convey, and showcase.
a lot of people like Swans, so naturally this animal may help to attract consumers.

Below are some sketches that I have done of swans for this project so far.

Thomas.