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CASSELLS BOOK OF BIRDS. 



as also to the north-western portions of the African continent, as for example the lakes of Morocco, 

 Algeria, and Tunis. It also sometimes visits Spain. In an easterly direction it is to be met with 

 in great numbers throughout the lake districts of Central Russia, and also near the mouths of large 

 rivers, both in Southern Russia and Central Siberia. Of the Whistling Swans that breed in Iceland, 

 few ever wander far from their native place, and this for a very simple reason, namely, that owing to 

 the Gulf stream which sweeps through its numerous bays and creeks, and the many hot springs derived 

 from volcanic sources, the inland lakes are kept free from ice, while in Russia the swans are all obliged 

 to take their departure before the setting in of winter freezes the lakes and rivers. 



In its general appearance the Whistling Swan bears some resemblance to the Mute or Tame Swan, 

 but is by no means so elegant in its shape. Its neck has not the same flexibility or the same graceful 



THE WHISTLING SWAN (Cyglius musicus). ONE-SIXTEENTH NATURAL SIZE. 



bend ; nevertheless, though surpassed in grace by Cygnus o/or, it is a very beautiful bird. The main 

 feature in which it differs from other Swans is its loud-toned and agreeable voice. Pallas informs 

 us that " its voice has a sound as sweet as that of a silver bell," and adds, " it sings as it flies, and 

 may be heard at a great distance, indeed all that has been said of the notes of the dying Swan is no 

 fable, for with its last breath the wounded ' Singing Swan ' utters its song." 



"The epithet mitsieus" says Faber, "is well bestowed pn these birds, for when a little flock of 

 them approaches, flying in the air, their tuneful melancholy voices sound like trumpets heard at a 

 distance. Olaf tells us, "when a company of these birds passes through the air, their song during 

 the long winter nights is truly delightful, equal to the notes of a violin." " It is certain," says Arman, 

 " that the voice of a Singing Swan has a more silvery tone than that of any other creature. When 

 wounded, its breath produces this silver sound, so that its song is celebrated in many a Russian 

 ballad." Oesel says, " Their song consists of two notes, which when uttered by the whole flock are 



