Although Rare in other parts in North America, Trumpeter Swans is a common site on the Copper River Delta. Over 1,000 adult and juvenile birds return here each year to breed and spend the summer. Trumpeters are the largest of our waterfowl, weighing over 27 pounds and having wingspans up to 8 feet wide. They are distinguished from other swans and geese by their large size and a blaring trumpet-like call. They are also one of the most long-lived birds, surviving up to 29 years in captivity.

The species at one time bred throughout most of this continent, but due to excessive hunting in the 19th century and loss of wetlands, the birds were almost completely wiped out. In 1932 only 16 swans were located in the Lower 48.

Alaska takes on a special importance, since our state is home to 80% of all breeding Trumpeters in the world. The Copper River Delta area harbors over 10% of the entire Alaska population. Efforts are underway in several states and provinces to the south to reestablish breeding population of Trumpeters in their historic ranges. The Forest Service is working with other Federal and state agencies to collect information on Trumpeters Swans on the Copper River Delta - about where they chose to nest, feed, and molt. And programs have also begun to gain insight into their local movements and migratory habits. It is hoped that information obtained here on the Delta will help agencies better manage existing Trumpeter Swan habitat as well as reestablish the species where it was once common.

This is Kathryn Corey for the US Forest Service Cordova Ranger District.