This Swan Glides In for a Landing Like a Boeing 787

This mute swan coming in for a landing is not actually mute, but this species is much quieter than other swans — except when they’re flying. Researchers and swan enthusiasts enjoy the very audible, but very rhythmic, humming made by their wings, which can be heard up to a mile away. However, now the flight is almost over, and it’s time to make the final approach. The aerodynamic expert shared by dailybirdshow efficiently engages its landing gear for a perfect touchdown on the watery runway. Read on to find out how it’s done.

Takeoff on Land and Sea

Mute swans (Cygnus olor) are large waterfowl that prefer temperate climates with freshwater lakes, ponds, streams, and rivers. They are native to Europe and Asia, where they are partially migratory. Mute swans are generally considered invasive in the U.S. and these populations are not migratory. They typically weigh between 20-25 pounds and grow to around 55-62 inches. Their wingspans range from about 6.5-8 feet. Because swans are such large birds, they need between 80-100 feet of runway to build up enough speed to take off. Once aloft, they require at least an additional 50 feet to gain enough clearance to avoid obstacles.

When accelerating for takeoff, swans hold their necks straight and run across the surface of the water while rapidly flapping their wings. Swan experts claim mute swans can reach speeds of 30mph in their pre-flight run. While they prefer to take to the air from water, they can also do so from land. They have short legs at the back of their bodies so they are awkward when walking, but mute swans can sprint as fast as 22mph. While they are believed to reach higher altitudes when migrating, they generally fly shorter distances at lower altitudes of around 400-500 feet. Mute swans can also fly at speeds up to 55mph.

The Mechanics of Landing on Water

As shown in the video above, when swans come in for a landing, their wings are fully extended to create more air resistance and shed some of their speed. As they glide closer to the water, they spread their legs and lower their webbed feet. This creates additional drag as they prepare to make contact with the water’s surface. As soon as swans touch down, they briefly run across the water to slow their momentum. Then, they use their feet as brakes, skidding to a stop before slowly lowering their wings, letting their neck relax into its natural “S” shape, and sinking into the water.

A swan’s landing is similar to skydiving. Like a swan’s wings, a parachute increases air resistance to slow the descent. Running when touching the ground absorbs any remaining forward momentum. This reduces the force of impact and allows for greater control of the landing. Likewise, the swan’s feet are comparable to the landing gear on an airplane, which also creates drag to decrease speed. Of course, unlike skydivers and pilots, swans prefer to land on the water, not on the ground. However, they do sometimes land on roads or in fields due to miscalculation or turbulence. Young swans can fly in about 60 days, so they are particularly prone to crash-landings due to inexperience. Fortunately, the young remain with their parents until the following breeding season, so they have some time to practice.