Trumpeter swans, the heaviest bird in North America, are native to the continent. They’re known for their striking white feathers, distinctive trumpet-like calls, and long, elegant necks. These majestic birds have captured our imagination for centuries, and they continue to fascinate bird enthusiasts around the world. Here are five fascinating facts about the trumpeter swans.

1. Large and In Charge
The trumpeter swan is the largest native waterfowl species in North America, with a wingspan of up to 8 feet and a weight of up to 30 pounds. These birds can stand up to four feet tall and are primarily white with black feet, bill, and legs. Additionally, they have a famous call that some say sounds like a trumpet. These birds live for around 20 years in the wild and mate for life.

2. Cold Climate Survivors
Swans prefer wetlands and waterbodies. In winter, trumpeter swans can survive in water as cold as 32°F, and their thick feathers insulate them from the cold. Despite their tolerance to cold water, they migrate south to eat and breed.

3. Chicks Need Help
Trumpeter swans are highly protective of their young. It takes around three months for the swan’s eggs to hatch. Immediately after hatching, the chicks depend on their parents for food, protection, and warmth. Trumpeter swans will fiercely defend their young from predators and other swans in the area.

4. Symbol of Success
The trumpeter swan was nearly hunted to extinction in the late 1800s and early 1900s by people who wanted its feathers for fashion. Fortunately, conservation efforts have helped the bird recover, and now there are over 16,000 trumpeter swans living in North America. They symbolize a conservation success story and are a reminder of the importance of protecting endangered species.

5. Winter Gathering
In the winter, trumpeter swans flock to large bodies of open water in northern regions. These gatherings can be in groups of up to 100 birds. This is an incredible sight for birdwatchers to see them all surviving the winter together.

In conclusion, trumpeter swans are a fascinating species of bird, known for their beauty, grace, and endurance. They are an important part of North American wildlife, providing not only a source of wonder for humans but also a vital role in wetland ecosystems. If you get the chance to see them in the wild, take a moment to appreciate these majestic birds and the conservation efforts that have helped save them from extinction.