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Trumpeter Swans The Trumpeter Swan, Cygnus buccinator, is our largest native waterfowl species. Accordingly, this watercolor is the largest I have ever done (39" x 51") - matted and framed, the original is bigger than I am. With a wingspan over 7 feet, weighing 21-35 pounds, and about 4 feet high, these long-necked, snow-white birds have a black bill and short black legs. The grey cygnets (juveniles) become white after the first year. In the 1800s and early 1900s, trumpeters were hunted heavily, both as game and a source of feathers. Also, young birds are unusually sensitive to lead poisoning. Trumpeters once bred from northwestern Indiana west to Oregon, and from James Bay to the Yukon. By the mid-twentieth century, their comparatively small numbers in the southern part of the range had been reduced to near zero even though many thousands survived in their core range (Canada and Alaska). Core populations have since rebounded but efforts to reintroduce them to the southern portion of the range have met with only moderate success. Suitable habitats have dwindled and released birds do not undertake migrations. The original watercolor is in a private collection but limited edition prints and note cards are available. Click here for availability and price.