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Androgynous Swan: What is it? Can it lay eggs? Why would a male swan chose the androgynous swan over a female?
By:Raymond Clark
Date: 1 July 2009

Hi, I live in the small town of St Marys in Ontario. This year we have 3 swans. Two have paired off, the third a female is alone. The 'pair' of swans consists of a male and what town parks officials are saying is an 'androgynous' one, called Andy. Is this possible?

And can you explain what an androgynous swan is? I understand the term but did not know it happened in wild birds.

Is there any explanation as to why a male swan would pair off with an androgynous swan rather than the female?

What prompts swan pairings in general?

Whatever the case we are enjoying our own Peyton Place Riviera and enjoy all the swans.

Is it possible for Andy to mate and lay eggs?

I would be very appreciative if you could help me understand this situation more.

Thankyou

Messages In This Thread

Androgynous Swan: What is it? Can it lay eggs? Why would a male swan chose the androgynous swan over a female? -- Raymond Clark -- 1 July 2009
Re: Androgynous Swan: What is it? Can it lay eggs? Why would a male swan chose the androgynous swan -- The Regal Swan -- 2 July 2009