Scientific name

Cygnus olor (Gmelin)

Common name

Mute Swan

Hindi

Hans

Sanskrit 

Hamsaha

Distribution

Throughout India

Religious association

The swan is the associate of Lord Brahma, the Creator. It is said to possess the sacred knowledge of the Brahman.

 Goddess Saraswati

Brahma, the Creator and Goddess Sarasvati, the Hindu goddess of wisdom, knowledge and learning, use a white swan as their vehicle and companion, giving Sarasvati the name Hamsavahini.