The Swan : A Biography

Author: Moss, Stephen

Mathematics & science

Published on 4 November 2021 by Vintage Publishing (Square Peg) in the United Kingdom.

From the renowned naturalist Stephen Moss comes the must-have

gift for bird lovers this Christmas.

'Wherever there is a stretch of water for them

to find food and make their nest, you will come across swans'

With beautiful illustrations throughout, this eye-opening biography reveals

the hidden secrets of one of Britain's best-known birds.

The Mute Swan is not so much a bird, as a national treasure: the avian

equivalent of Sir David Attenborough or the Queen. These huge and stately

creatures are part of our urban and rural landscapes, a constant presence on

lakes, rivers and ponds throughout Britain. Yet despite their familiarity,

they are often misunderstood; and while many people love swans, others fear

them.

Swans also feature in myths and legends, art and literature, dance and

music, not just in Britain but all around the world. Stephen Moss delves into

the facts and fiction about these charismatic birds, describes their seasonal

life cycle and examines their central role in our history and culture. He

also includes stories about 'wild swans' - Whooper and Bewicks - that visit

us in winter; and the Black Swan of Australia.

'A superb naturalist and writer' Chris

Packham

'Moss has carved out an enviable niche as a chronicler of the natural

world' Daily Mail