13 October, 2009

Tundra Swan


Scientific Name: Cygnus columbianus

Population Estimate: 300K

Range / Habitat: Summer / breeding in the Arctic tundra. Winters in areas on both US coasts and in part of Texas.

Field Notes: Large, all-white swan with black bill. A portion of this species will have a yellow spot by the eye. Vocalization is the most reliable means to differentiate this bird from the Trumpeter Swan. Compared to the loud, constant, trumpet-like chatter of the latter bird, the Tundra Swan only vocalizes when taking off / landing / in flight. It is practically a cooing in comparison to the Trumpeter.

Personal Notes: The above photo taken of a bird in migration in a flooded farm field in Carver County, MN.

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