North America’s Largest Waterfowl, the trumpeter swan, is a fascinating bird with an intriguing history. Here are some interesting facts about this majestic creature.

1. Size: The trumpeter swan is the largest species of waterfowl in North America, measuring up to 5 feet long with a wingspan of up to 10 feet. The bird weighs anywhere from 16 to 30 pounds, making it one of the heaviest birds on the continent.

2. Range: Trumpeter swans are found throughout North America, with breeding populations in Alaska, Canada and the northern United States. Their wintering range extends from the Pacific Northwest to the Atlantic coast, including parts of the southern United States, Mexico, and in recent years, even Cuba.

3. Population decline: In the early 20th century, the trumpeter swan population was critically low due to hunting, habitat loss, and the use of lead shot in wetlands. By the 1930s, only 69 trumpeter swans remained in the wild. Thanks to conservation efforts, the population has rebounded to an estimated 63,000.

4. Lifespan: Trumpeter swans have a lifespan of up to 20 years in the wild and can live even longer in captivity.

5. Food: The trumpeter swan feeds primarily on aquatic plants, such as sedges, water lilies, and pondweeds, as well as insects, snails, and small fish.

6. Feathers: The feathers of the trumpeter swan were once extremely valuable and were traded by native peoples throughout North America for centuries. In the early 1900s, the feathers became popular for use in women’s hats, leading to a further decline in the bird’s population.

7. Flight: Although they are large birds, trumpeter swans are excellent fliers, capable of reaching speeds of up to 80 miles per hour.

8. Family life: Trumpeter swans mate for life and typically lay 4-6 eggs each year. The cygnets, or baby swans, are cared for by both parents and are able to swim and feed themselves within a few days of hatching.

9. Symbolism: The trumpeter swan has long been a symbol of love and fidelity due to their lifelong partnerships. In some native cultures, the bird is also associated with the spirit world and is believed to bring good luck.

10. Conservation: Thanks to conservation efforts, the trumpeter swan population has made a remarkable recovery in recent years, but the bird remains vulnerable to habitat loss, pesticide use, and other threats. It is important to continue protecting and preserving these magnificent creatures for future generations to enjoy.