Trumpeter Swan

General Description

The largest of the North American native waterfowl and one of our heaviest flying birds, the Trumpeter Swan is large and white. It holds its long neck straight up, often with a kink at the base. The bill is black, and there is no coloration in front of the eyes. The juvenile is dusky-gray, with a mottled dark-and-light bill that is black at the base. The juvenile plumage persists until at least spring migration, which helps distinguish the Trumpeter Swan from the Tundra Swan.

Trumpeter Swan's are Abundant North Western Washington and Uncommon South Western Washington from November-April.

Habitat

Trumpeter Swans inhabit lakes, ponds, large rivers, and coastal bays. They were historically more common in fresh water than salt water, but this is no longer the case. Their most important habitat requirements are open water, access to food, and protection from disturbance.

Behavior

Trumpeter Swans forage on water and, especially in winter, on land. Their long necks allow them to forage for submergent vegetation without diving. They are a long-lived, social species.

Adult and Juvenile