Summer Swans

[micpic]

Not sure if these are Whistling or Trumpeter Swans. The DNR releases immature Trumpeters but not in this area. Your ID help would be appreciated.

Mike

[Jim Almquist]

Mike they sure look like they would be Trumpeter Swans. When I look at my Sibley field guide one of the3 things they use to ID is the broad black lores and the lack of any yellow on it. This is the area of black by the eyes. The other thing is the longer straight edge from the back of the bill going up to the eyes.

[micpic]

Thanks Jim, everything that I had read about the species was too close for me to call one or the other. The Swan's would not look straight at me, it was only away from me or to the side. From what I read is the Trumpeter has a V forehead and the Whistler has a curved forehead. I'll try to rememer this the next time I'm fortunate to come across them!

Mike