Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus

(a.k.a. Whistling Swan)

Tundra Swans undertake the longest migration of all the swans. From the wintering grounds along the Pacific seaboard to the breeding grounds in Alaska they fly approximately 4500 km. Swans which migrate from Alaska and Arctic Canada to the eastern seaboard of the USA fly about 6000km. They are often difficult to distinguish from the Trumpeter Swan as they are both large, have white plumage, black legs and black feet. However, Tundra Swans have a shorter body, are lighter in weight (male just over 7kg, female over 6.4kg). They also have a yellow 'teardrop' on the bill.

Image courtesy of Paul Holcomb 

Image courtesy of Dr Arnie Fredrickson