Few birds are as impressive as swans, and two of the most magnificent varieties in North America are the Barron’s trumpeter swan and the tundra swan. Although the two species have some similarities, they also have crucial differences that set them apart from each other. Let’s take a closer look at each bird and compare their unique traits.

Barron’s Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator)

Barron’s trumpeter swan is the largest waterfowl species in North America, with a wingspan that can exceed 8 feet. These birds are native to North America and are mostly found in the northwest part of the United States. Barron’s trumpeter swans typically weigh between 18-30 pounds, with males being slightly larger than females.

One of the most distinctive features of the Barron’s trumpeter swan is its all-black bill. Their feathers range from bright white to charcoal grey, and their legs are black. Trumpeter swans are also known for their distinctive honking sound, which can be heard from a great distance.

Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus)

The tundra swan, also known as the whistling swan, is found across North America, from Alaska to the east coast of the United States. Tundra swans have a smaller wingspan of around 6 feet, and they typically weigh between 10-18 pounds. Adult male and female tundra swans appear similar, with white feathers and black beaks and legs.

Despite the similarities in the birds’ appearance, there are a few distinct differences between the two swan species.

Beak

The most obvious difference between the two species is their bills. Barron’s trumpeter swans have an all-black bill, while tundra swans have a black bill with a yellow patch at the base that is more prominent in adults.

Size

Barron’s trumpeter swans are generally larger than tundra swans. They are the largest waterfowl species in North America, with a wingspan of up to 8 feet, while tundra swans have a wingspan of around 6 feet.

Honking

Another distinct difference is the birds’ calls. Barron’s trumpeter swans have a deeper, more powerful honk than tundra swans, which have a higher-pitched whistle-like call.

Population

Barron’s trumpeter swan was once on the brink of extinction due to overhunting, but conservation efforts have increased the population to around 63,000 birds. In contrast, tundra swans have a much larger population, with an estimated 150,000 birds in North America.

In conclusion, while the Barron’s trumpeter swan and tundra swan share some similarities, they also have important differences. The trumpeter swan is larger with an all-black bill and a deeper honk, while the tundra swan has a black bill with a yellow patch and a high-pitched whistle-like call. Understanding these differences can help birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts identify which species they’re looking at and appreciate the unique qualities of each bird.