Tundra Swan (Whistling Swan)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Anseriformes, Family: Anatidae, Genus: Cygnus, Species: C. columbianus · Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans) · Primary flight feather (Remige), likely P8 or P9 based on the degree of asymmetry.
Species
Cygnus columbianus
Feather Type
Primary flight feather (Remige), likely P8 or P9 based on the degree of asymmetry.
Family
Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans)
Shape
Highly asymmetrical with a very narrow leading edge (outer vane) and a broad trailing edge (inner vane). The tip is tapered and slightly rounded; the overall outline is elongated and scimitar-like.
Size
Approximately 12-14 inches (30-35 cm) in length. This is consistent with the primary feathers of a large swan, which typically reach 30cm+ for outer flight feathers.
Rarity
Common within its specific migratory flyways and wintering grounds, though rarely encountered far from water or agricultural feeding sites.
Color & Pattern
Naturally pure white. The current brownish-tan staining is environmental (mud, tannin-stained water, or organic debris). There are no natural melanistic bands or spots, which is typical for adult swans.
Barb Structure
Tightly interlocked (pennaceous) throughout the majority of the vane for aerodynamic integrity. The barbs are stiff and closely spaced to withstand the high pressure of flight for a heavy bird.
Texture & Surface
Extremely stiff and rigid vane with a smooth, slightly waxy surface characteristic of waterfowl. The trailing edge is slightly frayed due to wear and environmental exposure.
Description
A massive, all-white waterfowl with a long neck and black bill (usually featuring a small yellow spot near the eye). Adults are distinguished from Mute Swans by their straighter necks and black (not orange) bills. These birds move in large, noisy flocks known for high-pitched, barking calls.
Key Features
Pure white coloration (when clean), immense size, high degree of asymmetry in the vane, and a thick, rigid rachis capable of supporting a 15-20 lb bird in flight.
Habitat
Breeds on Arctic tundra near lakes and pools; winters in large shallow lakes, estuaries, flooded fields, and coastal bays.
Geographic Range
North America. Breeds in the Arctic and sub-Arctic of Alaska and Canada; migrates across the continent to winter primarily on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of the U.S.
Condition Notes
Fair condition. The feather shows significant environmental staining (dirty) and moderate edge wear/splitting (veluring) along the trailing vane, suggesting it may have been on the ground for some time after molting.
Interesting Facts
Tundra Swans can migrate over 3,000 miles from the Arctic to the mid-Atlantic coast. They are known for 'V' formations that can include hundreds of birds, reaching altitudes of up to 6,000 feet.
Ecological Role
Herbivorous consumer that helps manage aquatic vegetation. They are also important prey for large predators (eggs/cygnets) and serve as indicators of wetland health.
Similar Species
Trumpeter Swan (larger, feather often exceeds 15 inches), Mute Swan (feather nearly identical but slightly broader), and Snow Goose (proportionally smaller with a black tip on the primary).
Notes
Mainly white just dirty