The coscoroba swan (Coscoroba coscoroba) returns to Paraguay during the winter and can be seen in lagoons, wetlands and areas near the Paraguay River. The South American bird draws attention with its white plumage, reddish bill and black wingtips, which are more visible in flight.
Records occur mainly in the Chaco and in areas near the Paraguay River, generally at low density. The birds typically move in pairs or small groups and can reach between 90 and 115 centimeters in length.
The species is also known for frequenting watery environments and feeding on aquatic vegetation and invertebrates. In the Central Chaco, saltwater lagoons and other bodies of water change in composition according to climatic conditions, influencing food availability and the concentration of migratory birds.
From a distance, the coscoroba can be confused with the large swans of the Northern Hemisphere, but it is native to South America. Its range includes Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil and Chile. The black-necked swan (Cygnus melancoryphus) also arrives in the country during the cold season, especially in the Chaco and areas near the Paraguay River.
The birds’ seasonal presence is especially relevant to birdwatching and nature photography, since the coscoroba is relatively uncommon in Paraguay. Wetlands provide feeding and shelter areas and are essential habitats for the species.
The program Paraguay Salvaje will show a feature on coscoroba swans this Saturday, September 5, at 3:30 p.m. The broadcast will be on Unicanal and also available online, according to the published program listing.