White mute cygnets are a leucistic coloring commonly called Polish Mutes by Swan Keepers. Taupe/grey colored mute cygnets are the normal coloring and known as Royal Mutes by Swan Keepers. You cannot determine sex based upon these colors.

Yes, it is strongly recommended to pinion between 1-3 weeks of age because there is less stress on the cygnet as well as the wing structure because bone is still cartilage and nerve endings as well as other anatomical structures are not mature. If you must pinion an older cygnet or swan, it must be done under anesthesia by a certified veterinarian with expertise in pinioning of waterfowl. The Regal Swan