Why is the black swan the emblem of Western Australia?
The black swan is Western Australia's bird emblem because it is native to the state and closely linked to its history. Dutch explorer Willem de Vlamingh named the Swan River after them in 1697.
Before Europeans saw black swans in Australia, people in Europe believed all swans were white. The phrase black swan was used to describe something impossible, so de Vlamingh's report caused surprise.
When the Swan River Colony was founded in 1829, the black swan became its symbol. It appears on the Western Australian flag and coat of arms, and was officially adopted as the state's bird emblem in 1973.
About black swans
Black swans are found across southern Australia and Tasmania. They have black feathers, white flight feathers visible in flight and a bright red bill with a white band.
They feed on water plants and algae in lakes and estuaries. Pairs often stay together for many years.
Black swans have been introduced to New Zealand and parts of Europe. Lake Monger and Herdsman Lake in Perth are good places to see them, and the bird also gives its name to sporting teams and businesses across the state. Western Australians are often nicknamed sandgropers, but the swan remains the state's best-known symbol.
Did You Know?
Perth's Swan Bells and the WA Swan Brewery both take their names from the bird and river.