Few sights in the natural world carry the same symbolic weight as the swan: a universal icon of grace and devotion. For many, catching a glimpse of these birds in the wild is a once-in-a-lifetime "bucket list" event, yet Utahns are uniquely fortunate to be located directly along one of their primary migration routes.
Two types of swans migrate through Utah during different times of the year: tundra and trumpeter swans. Both swan species stop in Utah's wetlands for some much-needed rest and refueling during their migration north in the spring.
Trumpeter swans are significantly larger than tundra swans and are the largest waterfowl species in North America, with wingspans exceeding 8 feet. Trumpeter swans also do not have a yellow-colored spot near their eyes — which is a defining characteristic of tundra swans — and trumpeter swans make a distinctive trumpet-like sound, hence their name. Their spring migration takes them from wintering grounds in California to nesting sites in Canada and Alaska.
"Witnessing these rhythmic, graceful giants descending upon our marshes is a special reminder of how vital Utah's wild spaces are," Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Northern Region Outreach Manager Crystal Ross said. "Between their massive wingspans and snowy-white feathers, they are a sight that's impossible to miss. I love that their journey brings them right through our backyard."
While the peak time to see them in the spring is typically March, you can also see swans in Utah during their fall migration as well, typically in early-to-mid November.
Here are some great places to see swans in Utah this spring:
Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area
The Compton's Knoll viewing area — a small hill on the southeast side of the DWR's Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area — is a perfect place to view swans and other birds. The hill places visitors above the marsh, providing fantastic viewing opportunities for those who have binoculars or spotting scopes. Two bird-viewing blinds are also located at the bottom of the hill.
The Salt Creek WMA is located about 12 miles northwest of Corinne. Except for the Compton's Knoll viewing area, the rest of the WMA is closed for different parts of the year. Please remain behind closed gates and only view the swans from Compton's Knoll or the two bird-viewing blinds at the bottom of the hill.
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
Managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the refuge — and its Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge Auto Tour Route — is another great place to see migrating swans in Utah. It is located about 12 miles west of Brigham City.
To reach the auto tour route, exit I-15 at exit 363, and travel west on West Forest Street until you come to a large parking area with an observation tower. Stop at the tower to look for swans in the marsh to the north. You can then drive along the 12-mile auto tour route. The route will take you on a journey through the heart of the refuge. You could see thousands of swans in the wetlands along the driving route.
Eccles Wildlife Education Center at Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area
You can also sometimes see migrating swans at the DWR's George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Wildlife Education Center and Hasenyager Preserve. The DWR's Eccles Wildlife Education Center is part of the Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area.
The WMA will be closed beginning Feb. 16 for roadway repairs and maintenance. The closure is expected to last for only a couple of weeks during construction. After that, the WMA's main gate will be open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Additionally, motor vehicle access to the WMA, via the Goose Egg Island gate, will be closed from Feb. 16 through mid-September. During this time, you may still walk or bike along the 2-mile dirt roadway to the open area near the Turpin Unit (often referred to as the "four-way"). This annual closure protects nesting wildlife and allows the DWR to conduct habitat management and maintenance activities.
The education center also features a taxidermied tundra and trumpeter swan.