Nesting Swans
Here the Madison River slows, meanders, and
spreads rich silt over the floodplain. Trumpeter
swans feed on the lush aquatic plants and
sometimes nest on the riverbank. Though their
large nest mounds appear exposed on the
marshy expanse, the swans get a clear view
of approaching predators.
Despite frigid air temperatures, many swans,
Canada, geese, and mallards winter in these
thermally warmed waters. Swans often return
to the same nesting territory; you may spot the
same pair year after year.
You can protect the swans and their habitat
by not disturbing or feeding wildlife.
Young, unpaired swans find life-long mates among the
more social winter flocks.
