ExploreBird

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

The Trumpeter Swan is known for its loud trumpeting call! It is one of the largest swans and has stunning white feathers.

Habitat: Wetlands and lakes

Appearance

The Trumpeter Swan is a majestic all-white bird, the largest waterfowl in North America. It has a long, straight black bill and distinctive black lore extending from the bill to the eye, differentiating it from similar species.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderAnseriformesFamilyAnatidaeGenusCygnus

Trumpeter Swan

Interesting facts

Baby swans are called cygnets and are born with fluffy gray down.

They mate for life, forming strong pairs that stay together year after year.

They use their strong feet to paddle and steer like rudders in the water.

Trumpeter Swans were once hunted almost to extinction, with fewer than 100 birds!

Special abilities

Trumpeter Swans can make loud, trumpet-like calls because of their long trachea, helping them communicate across vast distances.

Trumpeter Swans have long powerful necks that help them reach underwater plants up to 1.2 meters deep for food.

Trumpeter Swans can fly over 2,500 kilometers during migration because of their powerful wings, enduring harsh weather.

Measurements & details

Length: 138-180 cm
Wingspan: 185-250 cm
Weight: 7-14 kg
Lifespan: 10-20 years
Top Speed: 100 km/h
Clutch Size: 4-9
Incubation: 32-37 days
Migration Distance: 2500 km

Diet & Feeding

These magnificent birds primarily feast on submerged aquatic plants and tiny water creatures.

Age differences: Young cygnets eat more protein-rich aquatic insects to support rapid growth.

Primary Foods

Submerged aquatic plants
Seeds
Tubers
Leaves
Aquatic invertebrates

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

eats

Bald Eagle

Haliaeetus leucocephalus

Predates on eggs and young cygnets, especially during nesting.

eats

Coyote

Canis latrans

Can prey on cygnets or adults, especially during winter.

eaten by

Floating Pondweed

Potamogeton natans

An important food source, roots and stems are consumed.

eaten by

Broadleaf Cattail

Typha latifolia

Swans feed on roots and tubers of these wetland plants.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Feathered

These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.

Webbed Feet

These animals have special feet with skin between their toes, which helps them swim super fast!

Social

Discover creatures that love to live and work together! These animals form groups, helping each other find food, stay safe, and raise their young.

Herbivorous

Meet the peaceful munchers and grazers who find all their nourishment from plants, leaves, and fruits. They transform plant energy into life!

Wetland

These fascinating areas are covered by water for at least part of the year, creating a perfect home for unique plants and animals, like marshes and swamps.

Migratory

Follow incredible journeys across the world! These animals travel far and wide at different times of the year, often to find better food or warmer places.