Trumpeter Swan
Help save this endangered species!
Background Information
Appearance
Is a large bird, about 150 to 183 centimeters (five to six feet) in length from bill to tail. Wingspan is about two and half meters (eight feet). Has white plumage and all-white wings. The bill and feet are black.Neck is unusually long and graceful, held with a kink at the base when standing or swimming. Head and neck often have a rusty-orange stain as a result of feeding in iron-rich lake water.
Habitat
The habitat is usually a nest on a shallow lake or marsh but these bodies of water are being destroyed by development and construction to retrieve oil and gas. Their most important habitat requirements are: open water, access to food, and protection from disturbance.
Issues
Existing winter habitat is overcrowded by other swan species, and leads to potential losses due to: habitat alteration, high competition for food, increased exposure to disease and parasites, and severe weather conditions. Further sources of swan mortality may include: accidental shooting, electrocution from collisions with power lines, and lead poisoning
Take Action!
Help the Trumpeter Swan!
Want to help? Take action by donating to or joining organizations that aid this species such as the Alberta Wilderness Association. You can also bring your concerns to your city councilor and/or MLA. Sign up for the Trumpeter Swan Society to write letters as a group to raise awareness in your community.
Contact the AWA
Box 6398, Station D, Calgary, Alberta T2P 2E1
Phone: (403) 283-2025 Fax: (403) 270-2743 Toll free: 1-866-313-0713
Email: awa@shaw.ca