UTAH: "The first of tens of thousands of swans making their annual fall visit are showing up at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge.

“Want to see flocks of swans? Now is the time!” the refuge announced online. “Swan migration is in full swing here in Utah, and the refuge is one of the best places to watch and listen to these incredible birds.

“Right now, you can often spot large groups resting and feeding in open water and flooded fields especially during the early morning and evening hours.” Read more...

Shared through Facebook, this sunset sighting of trumpeter swans flying had a big reaction.

The North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP) celebrates 40 years of conservation progress in 2026.

Some of the lessons from NAWMP are clear and simple. NAWMP was built on voluntary partnerships, people working together from Canada to Mexico to achieve big things while no one was truly "in charge".

Migratory birds with their flyway connections have natural powers to bring people together in a common cause. Partners need to care about outcomes, not credit. Integrity and trust are crucial, as is evaluating programs and adapting to biological and social change.
In this webinar, you’ll learn the inspiring story of people, partnerships, and action for continental conservation that continues today! And you’ll discover your place in this ongoing conservation success story.

Presenter:
Mike Anderson, PhD., has been involved with the Plan since its inception
November 20, 2025
"It was an awesome presentation…I learned a lot about the 40 years of conservation efforts..and was especially interested in the many partnerships that enabled this to happen!"

Did you ever wonder what swans are doing, and why? Now you can find out!

Watch short and engaging videos of swan behaviors. Explore swan behaviors during the year- from building a nest, to caring for cygnets, feeding, preening, mating and more!

Discover the beauty and fun moments of swan behavior.

Learn how to recognize and prevent some swan health and safety issues.

By the end of the webinar you’ll know how to anticipate displays, flight take-offs, and the iconic heart shapes for your personal photos and videos!

Welcome to the wonderful world of swan behavior!
Swan Expert presenters: Dr. Gary Ivey, Carrol Henderson

October 30, 2025
“The short videos of their behavior were wonderful, and their interpretation by the two experts was especially helpful. Great job!”

WASHINGTON: "ecovery has been the work of conservation organizations, tribes, and county officials, all of whom have supported action and programs that support the natural diversity of this region.

With the fall of each year, the Salish Sea region is witness to the arrival of the great migrations of waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors that move through this region or remain through the winter.

One wintering species in particular, the trumpeter swan, is a stark and glowing presence when feeding as a flock or family group on the dark bottom lands or flying overhead in formation. Reaching weights of about 30 pounds and aloft on wings that may span over eight or more feet, they are hard to miss..."

The W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary played a crucial role in the successful reintroduction of the Trumpeter Swan in the state of Michigan. The effort was led by the late Joe Johnson, Manager. Discover the fascinating story of almost 100 years of waterfowl conservation, research, and education at this special nature center. The Sanctuary is a must-visit destination. Although active management of Trumpeter Swans is no longer necessary in Michigan, you’ll learn about the current population and the factors impacting them today. You’ll also explore the travels of thirteen Michigan swans that were part of the Midwest GPS tracking study.

Presenter: Lisa Duke, Sanctuary Grounds Manager

NEBRASKA: TTSS Board member, Dr. Mark Vrtiska, was awarded Early Career Award with a lifetime experience in waterfowl. "Mark Vrtiska's win of the 2025 Early Career Faculty Award in the School of Natural Resources may be one for the record books...He had worked at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission the prior 21 years, Ducks Unlimited for three years before that and various waterfowl jobs throughout college and the year between his undergraduate studies at Nebraska and graduate studies at Eastern Kentucky University and Mississippi State University...The director of the School of Natural Resources said Vrtiska's work with students and stakeholders has especially made him deserve the Early Career Faculty Award." Read more...