Trumpeter Swans: Day 152

With an impressive wingspan of up to 8 feet and weighing in at roughly 20 lbs, Trumpeter Swans are by far the largest species of waterfowl in North America. Once widespread and common throughout the contiguous United States, Trumpeter Swans were heavily targeted for their feathers, and by the end of the 18th Century populations were severely reduced to near extinction from over-hunting. The long flight feathers required to lift these heavy birds into the sky were highly valued for use as writing quills in a time before 'Sharpies'. Swans that bred in the more remote areas of Alaska and Canada managed to avoid the onslaught of the feather trade, and current populations in these areas are considered to be increasing and in good health, while efforts to reintroduce Trumpeter Swans to the lower 48 have been less than successful.

Canon EOS 60D, Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM + 1.4x, ISO-200 f/5.6 @ 1/2000 sec.