The Trumpeters

 A small flock of some 20 plus trumpeter swans (Cygnus buccinator) have chosen a lake (with some open water) in the Omaha metro as their place to winter over before heading north again, most likely in late February. The trumpeter swan is considered to be the world's largest extant species of waterfowl.. They mate for life and congregate in small groups or families rather than travel in large flocks. Their loud, resonant, bugling voice is unmistakable. The trumpeters are native to North America and have a black bill with a long straight neck and do not share the bright orange bill and classic S shaped neck of the introduced Eurasian mute swan more commonly seen in urban ponds and lakes.

Contributor to:     Wild Bird Wednesday