Atlas of Habitats

group

0.1 m³

at 0 m

48.2ºN

[anchored] nest

mixed

weaving

porous

birds

[anchored] nest

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Introduction

Austria
Floridsdorfer Wasserpark
48,2513° N 16.3936° E
02/07/2024, 12:40 pm

The swan's nest located in Floridsdorfer Wasserpark is a testament to the mute swan's adaptive abilities. These waterfowl gather and arrange vernacular vegetation to create adaptable, protective structures. The nest's design includes adjustments made for safety and comfort, ensuring the survival of the swans’ offspring. Swans carefully select materials from the surrounding wetland environment, including reeds and grasses, lining the interior with soft materials for insulation. Although they are time- and energy-intensive, these nests ensure a safe, nurturing habitat.

Micro Climate

The swan's nest located in Floridsdorfer Wasserpark benefits from a favorable microclimate, enhanced by its strategic placement within the wetland environment. The nest's location provides shelter from wind and direct sunlight, while the surrounding vegetation creates a buffer against extreme weather conditions. The wetland environment also contributes to a humid, stable microclimate, helping to regulate temperature and humidity within the nest. These factors, combined with the nest's insulating properties, create an optimal environment for the development of the swan's offspring.

Material

The primary material used in the construction of the swan's nest is vegetation. The swans carefully gather reeds, grasses, and aquatic plants from the surrounding wetland environment. These materials are then woven together to create a sturdy, durable structure. The nest's base is often anchored to the ground or floating vegetation to provide stability and prevent it from drifting away.

Location

The swan's nest is located in Floridsdorfer Wasserpark, a public park situated in Vienna, Austria. The park features a variety of wetland habitats, including ponds, marshes, and reed beds, which provide ideal conditions for swans and other aquatic birds. Floridsdorfer Wasserpark was established in 1974 as part of Vienna's green spaces initiative, transforming a former landfill site into a valuable wetland ecosystem.

Construction

The process of building a swan's nest is a meticulous, time-consuming endeavor. The swans work together to gather and arrange the vegetation, carefully shaping the nest into a circular or oval form. The interior of the nest is lined with softer materials, such as down feathers, to provide a comfortable, insulating environment for the eggs and cygnets. The nest's outer walls are thick and well-insulated, helping to maintain a stable temperature and protect the young from predators and inclement weather.