Return of the Tundra Swans signifies Spring’s on its way

Tundra Swans stop in Huron County during their spring migration back to the Canadian Arctic. PHOTO BY DAVE BISHOP

If you live along the lakeshore, particularly in South Huron or Bluewater in Huron County, you’re familiar with the distinct whistling of the Tundra Swan as they migrate back north to their summer home in the Canadian arctic.  They winter along the Altantic Coast  from Maryland to South Carolina.

These magnificent birds are also called the “whistling swan,”  not because of its voice but due to the sound made by the slow, powerful beating of the bird’s wings in flight.  They grow quickly and may weigh 28 times their birth weight by the time it reaches 70 days old.   They usually form in  pairs and “go steady” for a year before breeding.

Source:  Hinterland’s Who’s Who

Photos by Dave Bishop, used with thanks.    Watch for more of Dave’s work coming out soon in a photographic history of Huron County.  (Keep tuned to Ontario Travel Divas for launch information)

Tags: Bluewater, Huron County, South Huron, spring migration, Tundra Swans