The largest flocks of swans in North America congregate on lakes and estuaries during the winter or come down from the gloomy sky. Meriwether Lewis gave them the nickname "whistling swans," which is still used today due to the distinctive whistling in their wings. These graceful animals breed on the arctic tundra and only come to the United States during migration in the winter. They are smaller than our other native species, the Trumpeter Swan. The majority are white, except for a yellow spot at the base of their black bills.
Tundra Swan Specification
Tundra Swan ID
Don't search for tundra swans in the summer unless you're in the arctic. Instead, keep an eye out for them in expansive amounts of water throughout migration and winter, especially in estuaries and safe coastal areas. These bulky white birds may also be seen in groups in agricultural fields, where they graze on spilled or unpicked grains. To distinguish them from Mute Swans, look for their unusual straight-necked stance and big flocks.
