Trumpeter Swans

 These are tagged Trumpeter Swans that showed up several days ago. They were hangin’ out with the other swans and the geese and ducks yesterday when I grabbed this photo. So much for the myth that swans will drive other waterfowl out of the area! I read that they are the largest native waterfowl in North America, with wingspans as much as 7 1/2 ft. and heights as much as 4 ft.! Some weigh in at over 30 lbs.! The name comes from their trumpet-like call.

John Keesey

At least 6 tagged Trumpeter swans first appeared on Sweet Arrow Lake last spring on what seems to be a migration North.  It is believed that they either escaped or were released from a  preserve or private breeder.  Genuine wild Trumpeter Swans are not ordinarily seen in this area.