FINAL (LOOK AT THIS ONE HAYS) TERRITORIAL BOUNDRIES AND BEHAVIORS OF MUTE SWANS

This topic submitted by Matt H., Rick D., Robin M. ( dsidara@muohio.edu ) on 12/15/04 .

Natural Systems 1 Syllabus---Western Program---Miami University

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Abstract
(Be sure you check out our video! It's a great way to meet the swans from Western Pond!)

Mute Swans are an exquisitely beautiful species of waterfowl, respected in culture and art since the beginning of civilization. Ironically, they have a unique territorial aggressiveness. Mute Swans set up territorial boundary lines which are intangible but distinct, and they protect these boundaries with the utmost enthusiasm. Our research project involves the testing of captive Mute Swans territorial boundaries and behavior.

We wish to answer the questions: how far do the boundary lines of the Mute Swans extend from the Western pond? Also, why do swans have a tendency for aggressive behavior, and how do they show it? To display the extent of the Mute Swan's territorial boundaries we gathered one-hundred qualitative data on the positions of the swans at different times of day on a daily basis.

We expressed the swans locations versus time of day graphically to express how far the boundary lines extend from the Western Pond. Our graphs and results show how the Mute Swan's territory lies within the banks of the pond and in the pond itself, as we predicted. In order to exhibit the swans aggressive behaviors and threat displays, we used a mirror as a stimulus for an opposing swan. We recorded the swans behaviors and threat displays towards the stimulus using a camcorder, and posted the video on our website. The purpose of this research project, as a whole, is to give students and admirers of the Mute Swans in the Western Pond a better understanding of the swan's aggressive demeanor and territorial boundary lines. With our projects information, students will also attain a foundation of knowledge about these unique and majestic birds.

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