Trumpeter Swan Sounds

Overview
ID info
Life History
Maps
Sounds

Pair calls
Media Player Error
Update your browser or Flash plugin
Oregon, April 11, 1992Recorded by Geoffrey A. Keller | Macaulay Library
Calls
Media Player Error
Update your browser or Flash plugin
Manitoba, June 11, 1960Recorded by William W. H. Gunn | Macaulay Library
Calls
Media Player Error
Update your browser or Flash plugin
Manitoba, June 11, 1960Recorded by William W. H. Gunn | Macaulay Library
Wing sound
Media Player Error
Update your browser or Flash plugin
Montana, March 10, 1956Recorded by James M. Hartshorne | Macaulay Library

Sounds provided by Macaulay Library.
Listen to more sounds of this species from the ML archive.

Calls

Male and female Trumpeter Swans give the characteristic deep, trumpeting “oh-OH” call, with the second syllable emphasized. The call is softer and more nasal-sounding when made with the mouth closed. Trumpeter Swans call to keep the pair or family together, to defend territories, or to sound an alarm. Both sexes also use a flat-toned, single-syllable “hoo” call to locate each other. Younger swans make a higher-pitched call, and develop their adult tone by the time they’re 6-8 months old.

Other Sounds

Trumpeter Swans slap the water aggressively with their large webbed feet when approaching an intruder. Their wings and feet also slap the water’s surface during takeoff.

eBird: Help & FAQ

Mesmerizing Migration: Watch 118 Bird Species Migrate Across a Map of the Western Hemisphere

Why Birds Hit Windows—and How You Can Help Prevent It

6 Steps to Choosing a Pair of Binoculars You'll Love

Building Skills: The 4 Keys to Bird Identification

Feeding Birds: a Quick Guide to Seed Types