Tundra Swan (Whistling Swan)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Anseriformes, Family: Anatidae, Genus: Cygnus, Species: Cygnus columbianus
Family: Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans)
- Shape
- Broadly elliptical with a rounded tip and a slightly asymmetrical vane; the base is largely plumulaceous (downy).
- Size
- Estimated 18–22 cm in length. This is consistent with a secondary or large body contour feather from a large waterfowl species.
- Rarity
- Common within its specific migratory corridors and wintering grounds, though seen less frequently than Canada Geese.
Found a feather like this?
Identify any feather from a photo, free.
Description
A large, elegant white waterfowl with a black bill usually featuring a small yellow spot. These birds are known for their high-pitched, whistling calls during flight.
Colour & Pattern
Uniformly white/creamy white. The brownish staining at the tip is external environmental soiling (mud/tannins) rather than natural pigmentation.
Barb Structure
Tight, pennaceous structure at the distal end for water repellency, transitioning into a very long, loose plumulaceous (downy) base for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and somewhat waxy at the tip; extremely soft, silky, and voluminous at the downy base. Water-resistant finish.
Key Features
Large size, pure white color, and a very deep, fluffy plumulaceous section that occupies nearly half of the feather length.
Habitat
Arctic tundra during breeding; large lakes, bays, estuaries, and flooded agricultural fields during wintering and migration.
Geographic Range
Breeds in the Arctic; migrates across North America to winter on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts and the Chesapeake Bay region.
Ecological Role
Herbivorous consumer of aquatic vegetation; serves as an indicator species for wetland health and climate change impacts in the Arctic.
Similar Species
Trumpeter Swan (larger rachis), Mute Swan (feather often more curved), or Snow Goose (smaller overall).
Interesting Facts
Tundra Swans can fly at altitudes of up to 27,000 feet during migration to take advantage of high-altitude winds.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The feather shows significant environmental staining (browning) and some separation of the barbs at the base, likely a naturally molted specimen.