Trumpeter swans are North America’s largest waterfowl, and they are fascinating creatures to watch and learn about. These beautiful birds are native to the region and have a unique beauty and grace that makes them a popular sight among bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Here are ten fascinating facts about trumpeter swans that you may not know:

1. Trumpeter Swans are among the heaviest flying birds in the world, weighing up to 30 pounds. They have a wingspan of up to eight feet and can grow to be as tall as five feet.

2. Trumpeter Swans are known for their distinctive trumpeting call, which can be heard from a long distance away. The call is often used to attract other birds and to warn of danger.

3. These swans are monogamous and mate for life, which is a long and beautiful bond.

4. They feed primarily on aquatic vegetation, but they also eat insects, fish, and small crustaceans.

5. Trumpeter Swans were once hunted to the brink of extinction, with just 70 birds remaining in the United States by the 1930s. Today, thanks to conservation efforts, their numbers have rebounded to around 17,000.

6. The swans are not migratory; they live year-round in the same area where they breed. Some swans in the northern part of their range will move to coastal areas to avoid frozen lakes and rivers for the winter.

7. Trumpeter Swans mate when they are about three to four years old, with some birds starting to breed as young as two.

8. The lifespan of a trumpeter swan can be up to 25-30 years in the wild, but many swans die earlier due to diseases or from being hit by cars, which is the major cause of death for these beautiful birds.

9. Trumpeter Swans can fly at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour and can travel long distances in a single flight.

10. It is illegal to hunt or kill trumpeter swans in the United States and Canada.

In conclusion, Trumpeter Swans are majestic birds with many interesting habits and traits that make them a fascinating subject of study. Conservation efforts have helped many populations to rebound, and they continue to be a beloved sight among bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.