Avian Migrations

Avian Migrations

Trumpeter Swans

There are many bird migrations with the changing of seasons and or food sources occurring across the globe.Trumpeter swans are a fascinating species of bird, here in their wintering grounds where there are abundant roots and shoots to flesh out throughout fall and winter months. One of the largest birds in N. America alongside raptors, herons, cranes and pelicans but they are the largest waterfowl species (Cygnus buccinator).  They seek out remote mountain areas and wetlands for nesting, mating for life and nurturing their young together whom they are fiercely protective of. In fact members of the flock come to help the parents out and there exists a strong bond between families of swans, some with 2- 7 cygnets.  Young cygnets learn all facets of feeding under the watchful eye of both parents. Cygnets have dark feathers which gradually fade as they age.They are very social birds and can often be seen in small or larger gatherings with loud displays of trumpet like calls. Males are fiercely territorial during breeding season and are known to fight other males. During mating season they pair off into couples, seeking privacy. Trumpeter swans (here in an Upper Fraser tributary) are elegant birds, living for longer than 20 years with thriving populations - no longer under threat as they once were up to the early 1900's, when hunting drove their numbers down to less than 200. With conservation efforts their numbers have risen to over 63,000 today.