Overview
The Trumpeter Swan is an incredible success story worth celebrating. At one time, they were nearly completely wiped out due to excessive hunting for their feathers, as well as a reduction in habitat loss as a result of declining beaver ponds; Trumpeter Swans frequently nest in beaver ponds. In fact, hope was nearly lost when non-migrating populations were found in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Many of these birds were used to repopulate areas that they had been extirpated from. Today the species is seeing remarkable recovery around the continent.
In addition, the Trumpeter Swan is North America’s heaviest native waterfowl. They can weigh more than 25 pounds! All that weight requires open water of at least 100 yards for them to get airborne. Their bright white plumage is unmistakable as they pop out in wetlands and rivers among darker waterfowl.
Migration
Many populations of Trumpeter Swans will winter in sporadic locations around the midwestern United States, summering farther north in the country, as well as far northern Canada and Alaska. The population in Jackson Hole, however, is one of the few in the continent that remain here year-round.
Where to Find Them in Jackson Hole
One of the best places to locate Trumpeter Swans is at the Flat Creek Overlook along Highway 89 along the National Elk Refuge, though they may be tucked back a little farther in the summer months. The population takes advantage of wetlands, so sightings throughout the summer months can be sporadic since there is more open water than in the winter. At least one pair can also be spotted at the South Park Wildlife Habitat Management Area in warmer weather.