Wintering with Barron’s Trumpeter Swans: A Spectacular Encounter with Nature

If you’re a nature enthusiast, there is no better way to spend your winter than by visiting one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles in North America – the wintering ground of Barron’s Trumpeter Swans.

Barron’s Trumpeter Swans is a breeding population of swans that migrate from Alaska and Canada to winter in Jackson County, Wisconsin. This area is now the largest wintering ground for the Trumpeter Swans in the world.

The Trumpeter Swans are the largest waterfowl species in North America, and their impressive wingspan can reach up to 10 feet. These beautiful birds have mostly white feathers, with a black bill and feet. The male swans, called cobs, can weigh over 25 pounds, while the females, known as pens, are smaller, weighing in at around 16 pounds.

The Swans roost in the open water during night-time, and then forage during day-time for food in farm fields or wetlands. The Swans primarily feed on aquatic plants, but also grub on insects and invertebrates.

The unique sound of the Trumpeter Swans is also a spectacle to behold. Their deep, sonorous calls can be heard echoing across the countryside, creating a truly a remarkable symphony.

Visitors can witness these majestic creatures up close at the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, which offers guided tours to the general public. It is located approximately 30 miles east of where the Swans are wintered, on Hwy 21 in Necedah, WI.

The best time to visit is between Mid-November and the end of February, when the Swans are breeding and displaying, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.

The Barron’s Trumpeter Swans not only offer a magnificent encounter with nature but also have an assured place in the history of wildlife conservation in the United States. Trumpeter Swans were on the brink of extinction in the late 1800s, with only 69 birds left in the wild. Since then, conservation efforts have had a tremendous impact, and there are now over 5,000 swans across North America.

In conclusion, wintering with Barron’s Trumpeter Swans is a spectacular encounter with nature that should not be missed. Witnessing these amazing creatures in their natural surroundings, with their distinctive calls resonating in the vast open space is a unique experience that will remain with you forever. So, plan your next winter getaway to this natural wonder and have a memorable encounter with nature.