Trumpeter Courtship

A Trumpeter Swan looks on while its mate flaps its wings during courtship.

The largest of all North American Waterfowl, the Trumpeter Swan is considered one of the great conservation success stories. These Swans were nearing extinction in the first half of the 20th century. According to Forbush in 1912: "The Trumpeter has succumbed to incessant persecution in all parts of its range, and its total extinction is now only a matter of years." Multiple sources report that in 1932 only 69 Trumpeter Swans were known to exist in the lower 48 states. Thanks to conservation efforts, including reintroduction at breeding grounds, in 2010 estimates showed this species nearing 50,000 Swans.

Along with lead poisoning and habitat loss, one of the biggest threats to their continued survival is human disturbance. According to Wikipedia, "The swans are also extremely sensitive to human disturbance at their breeding sites and will abandon nests and cygnets if disturbed." Ongoing conservation efforts include improving breeding habitat and limiting human disturbance at breeding sites.

I photographed this mated pair at Yellowstone National Park from a pullout. While driving by we spotted a small group of Trumpeters near the opposite shoreline on Yellowstone River. It's not currently breeding season, but we kept our distance and did not stay long. And for that short time I marveled at what a great privilege it was to be in the presence of these beautiful birds that almost didn't make it into this century. October 2015
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