2008 Federal Duck Stamp Contest Phone: 660-856-3323 |
Waterfowl
The primary purpose for establishment of the refuge was to provide nesting, resting and feeding areas for waterfowl, primarily ducks. Since establishment of the refuge, the primary emphasis on waterfowl species has been expanded to include the Eastern Prairie Population of Canada geese.
Canada geese had been rare visitors, stopping only briefly to rest on their long migration from their nesting grounds in northern Manitoba. Eight hundred geese wintered here for the first time in 1941. Their numbers increased gradually to peak populations from 150-200,000 annually during the early 1970's. Although these populations have steadily declined, Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge is still considered a primary wintering area for Canada geese. Populations today range from 10,000 to 80,000 birds annually.
Snow geese, unlike Canada geese, have steadily increased in recent years. From November through March, populations in excess of 150,000 have become a common occurrence. Duck numbers in the fall and spring frequently exceed 100,000 birds. For our latest bird count information, please visit this page. You may also wish to view the refuge bird list to see what species are typically found here.
