Hello,
The swans are on the move. Please be aware that some trumpeters have
neck bands. These may be yellow, red or green. If you see ANY swan with a
collar please document the location, date, collar color and if at all
possible the code on the collar (even a partial code). The code is alpha
numeric and most of the collars have a radio transmitter.
The lead poisoning die-off research study has expanded this year. Up to
200 trumpeters will be captured and collared in Whatcom County and north
into lower B.C. Sumas Prairie area. Most of the birds will be captured on
the U.S. side.
Outside of the Whatcom and Skagit Valley area: If you see a yellow
(US) or red (Canada) collar please report this immediately to the Mill Creek
office of WDFW or you can e-mail me and I will get it directly to the
biologist in the field. Your information can make a difference.
The green collars are from Alaska and are not part of the study but it
is important to note the locations of these birds.

Another study is also underway: Swans on the Olympic Peninsula - please
send your sightings of swans on the North Olympic Peninsula south to
Lilliwaup on Hood Canal to swanlady at drizzle.com I am working to
document all known areas for swans to refine our database of swan use,
especially in the Lake Aldwell to Quilcene Bay area.

Thanks for any assistance.

Martha Jordan
www.swansociety.org