Swan is one of our most ancient Anglo Saxon animal names, meaning sound or even singing. The Mute swan is something of a misnomer, especially since this supposedly silent bird does communicate with vocal noises. If you have ever approached a pair too closely in the breeding season you will be only too aware that these large birds - the largest water bird in the British Isles - can produce an intimidating loud, hoarse hiss, often accompanied by the threatening display of swimming with breast thrust forward, head curved back, wings arched and feathers ruffled. 'Busking' is a beautiful sight if not rapidly targeting you. With its majestic grace and gliding, mystical beauty, it is not surprising that these birds are associated with the pagan gods and goddesses of the Celtic world.
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