Cygnus olor, commonly known as the mute swan, is native to a wide range across Europe and parts of Asia. It is also found in specific regions such as the British Isles, Scandinavia, and as far east as Mongolia and eastern Siberia. The species has been introduced to North America, Australasia, and other regions, but this information focuses primarily on its native range.

Mute swans typically inhabit shallow lakes, ponds, rivers, and wetland areas with abundant aquatic vegetation. They prefer freshwater environments but can also adapt to brackish waters. The climate in their native range includes temperate conditions, with varying degrees of cold in winter months especially in northern and eastern parts of their distribution.

Mute swans primarily feed on aquatic vegetation, including submerged and emergent plants. They are also known to consume small aquatic animals. Their feeding habits help maintain the aquatic ecosystem balance by controlling plant growth. As a large and relatively aggressive bird, the mute swan has few natural predators and often competes with other waterfowl for resources.