Trumpeter Swan [Was: Conowingo Birds and Chili]

Leslie R. Eastman (les_eastman@netfox.net)
Tue, 19 Jan 1999 12:20:42 -0500


Marcia Watson-Whitmyre wrote:
> 
> Les Eastman wrote:
> >
> >  TRUMPETER SWAN
> >
> I note how casually these birds have gone from Rick Blom's initial post
> of a week ago to Les' no-comment inclusion in the Conowingo list.
> What's the scoop on these birds?  Is the id now definite?  Are they
> escapes?  Are there just 2?  Details, please, for a birder who badly
> wanted to be there on Sunday but just couldn't!
> Marcia Watson-Whitmyre

Well, I didn't comment on any of the birds we saw, so why should I
single this one out? :)  The ID is still controversial although Gene
Scarpulla has gotten the best observation that I have heard of and he
thinks they are Trumpeter Swans.  I think some of the people on the trip
saw features that made them think the swans were Trumpeters. (wishful
thinking?) Even if they are proven to be Trumpeter Swans, there is still
the question of origin. No one knows where they came from.  So, if you
want a frustrating view of immature swans that may be Trumpeters and
probably aren't countable, come to Conowingo.  If you want Trumpeter
Swan on your life list, go to Alaska. :)

Les
 
===========
Les Eastman
les_eastman@netfox.net
Havre de Grace, MD
Visit the Harford Bird Club Web Page at http://birdclub.harfordhasit.com