Maeve Binchy

In my books, there is no 'ugly duckling turning into a beautiful swan' syndrome because if you look at the Hansel and Gretel syndrome, it was a mistake. It wasn't a duckling, it was a cygnet, and that's why it turned into a swan. The duckling should with any luck turn into a nice clucking duck and get on with its life. Cluck! Cluck! Cluck!

Irish Novelist

Use 'cygnet' to describe swans only when they are young, similar to 'puppy' for dogs.

Life Stage

'Cygnet' often appears in nature-related discussions, especially regarding bird development.

Natural Setting

Cygnet' may imply whiteness as many associate young swans with white feathers, despite some being grey.