Bewick’s swan is a species of swan that is named after the British engraver Thomas Bewick. This bird is known for its distinctive appearance and migratory behavior, as well as its cultural significance in various parts of the world. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of Bewick’s swan, as well as its origins, associations, and synonyms.
Definitions
Bewick’s swan, also known as the tundra swan, is a species of swan that breeds in the Arctic regions of Siberia and migrates to wintering grounds in Europe and Asia. It is a medium-sized swan, with a wingspan of up to six feet and a weight of up to 15 pounds. It is known for its distinctive black bill with a yellow patch, as well as its white plumage with black wingtips.
Origin
Bewick’s swan was first described by the German naturalist Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1789. It is named after Thomas Bewick, a British engraver who illustrated a number of books on natural history in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Bewick’s swan is closely related to the whistling swan, and the two species were once considered to be the same.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, Bewick’s swan is defined as “a migratory swan of the tundra regions of Siberia, with a black bill and a yellow patch at the base, and a white plumage with black wingtips.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “a swan (Cygnus bewickii) of northern Eurasia that has a small yellow patch at the base of the bill.”
Associations
Bewick’s swan is associated with a number of cultural traditions in different parts of the world. In Japan, it is considered a symbol of fidelity and loyalty, and is often depicted in art and literature. In Russia, it is associated with the coming of spring, and is celebrated in festivals and folk songs. In Europe, it is a popular subject for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for Bewick’s swan include tundra swan, whistling swan, and Cygnus bewickii.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for Bewick’s swan, but some related terms might include non-migratory swans or swans with different physical characteristics.
The same root words
There are no direct root words for Bewick’s swan, but the genus name Cygnus comes from the Greek word for swan.
Example Sentences
- We saw a flock of Bewick’s swans flying overhead during our trip to Siberia.
- The yellow patch on the bill of Bewick’s swans is a distinctive feature that sets them apart from other swan species.
- Bewick’s swans are known for their long migrations, which take them from the Arctic tundra to wintering grounds in Europe and Asia.
- In Japan, Bewick’s swans are considered a symbol of loyalty and fidelity, and are often depicted in art and literature.