Trumpeter and Tundra Swans are in full migration mode coming out of their Alaska and western Canada breeding grounds. The Tundra Swans are expected to be arriving or moving through both eastern and western Washington at this time of year. The Trumpeter Swans are about 2-3 weeks early in western Washington than in recent years.
Photo: Martha Jordan
Most of the Trumpeters are in Whatcom, Skagit and Snohomish counties at this time. You can check on eBird for day to day updated information on what others are finding.
Please visit our Where To Watch page for specific information on some locations listed below.
Both Trumpeter and Tundra Swans have been observed in Whatcom County and throughout the Skagit Valley, including the Johnson-DeBay Swan Reserve. In Snohomish County they are roosting at the Bob Heirman Wildlife Park and feeding in the agricultural fields throughout the valley lowlands. Swans are also reported south into King and Pierce counties as well as moving into the lower Columbia River area around Ridgefield NWR and more.
It is a great time to get out and see the spectacle of our white swans of winter.
And for those that want to see all the white birds of winter, Snow Geese have arrived from the far north and are abundant in the Skagit Valley, especially in the Fir Island area including the Hayton Snow Goose Reserve.
REPORT SICK, INJURED OR DEAD SWANS at the WDFW Swan Hotline: 360-466-4345 x466 Leave a detailed message.
For more information on Swan and Goose ID please check out our website or download our Swan ID brochure.
Photo: Martha Jordan