Swans on the Central Coast: Graceful Locals of Our Lakes and Rivers
When you walk around the lakes and waterways of the Central Coast, chances are you’ll spot a swan or two gliding across the water. These elegant birds are a much-loved part of our local wildlife and a beautiful reminder of the natural world right on our doorstep.
What kind of swans live here?
The swans we see on the Central Coast are black swans – native to Australia and known for their striking black feathers and bright red beaks. Unlike the white swans seen in Europe, black swans are uniquely Aussie. They’re large birds with long necks and are often seen swimming in pairs or small groups. It’s not unusual to see a swan with their foot resting on their back – we get calls thinking the leg is broken but of course, it’s not this is just a way to help them regulate their body temperature.
Black swans are peaceful by nature, but they’re also very protective – especially during nesting season. If you see a swan fluffing up its wings or hissing, it’s best to give it some space.
Where can you see swans?
Swans are most often found in calm, shallow waters where they can feed and nest. Popular swan-spotting locations on the Central Coast include:
Tuggerah Lake – especially around The Entrance, Long Jetty, and Chittaway Bay.
Brisbane Water – Woy Woy, Gosford and Point Clare are great spots.
Lake Munmorah and Lake Macquarie – you’ll often see swans near the shore or in the reeds.
Wyong River – swans love the quieter stretches of the riverbank.
Sunrise and sunset are lovely times to spot them, often with the light reflecting off the water – it makes for a beautiful scene.
What do they eat?
Black swans mainly eat water plants. They use their long necks to reach underwater vegetation, and they’ll also graze on grasses near the shore. You might see them tipping forward with their bums in the air while feeding – it’s perfectly normal swan behaviour!
It’s important not to feed swans bread or human food, as it can make them sick and harm their natural diet. If you want to help them, the best thing to do is leave them be and enjoy watching from a distance.
Swans and their families
Swans are known to mate for life. During nesting season, which usually happens in winter and early spring, swans build large nests out of reeds and grasses. You might see a pair guarding their nest or swimming with fluffy grey cygnets (baby swans) close behind. It’s one of the cutest sights you’ll see on the water.
Swans are very protective parents, so if you see a family, it’s best to watch from afar and give them space.
Looking after our swans
To keep our local swan population healthy and happy, we can all do a few simple things:
Don’t litter – rubbish in lakes and rivers can hurt swans and other birds.
Keep dogs on leads near water where swans are nesting.
Avoid feeding wild birds – let them find their natural food.
Supporting Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast who care for water birds and protect breeding areas
Swans are a special part of life on the Central Coast. With their calm nature and graceful movements, they’re a joy to watch and a true symbol of the beauty we’re lucky to live amongst.