SALT LAKE CITY — As warmer weather approaches, migrating swans will pass through Utah as they journey north. If you’d like to see them, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources recommends three prime viewing spots near Great Salt Lake.
The unique species is just one of the hundreds of species that make their way through Utah each year.
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources said over 12 million individual birds belonging to 339 species rely on Great Salt Lake and its wetlands each year.
Migrating swans pass through Utah as they journey between California, Canada, and Alaska. According to the DWR, peak viewing time is typically in early March. However, they can also be spotted during their fall migration in November.
Two types of swans can be seen as they migrate through Utah; tundra and trumpeter.
Trumpeter swans are the largest North American waterfowl species. Their wingspans can exceed eight feet. They have all-white bodies and black beaks, as well as a distinct call that resembles the sound of a trumpet.
In contrast, tundra swans have yellow spots on their face.
Where to see migrating swans in northern Utah
Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area
The Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area is managed by the DWR and can be found 12 miles northwest of Corrinne. While there, the organization recommended the Compton’s Knoll viewing area.
Unlike other areas of the waterfowl management area, Compton’s Knoll remains open year-round.
Located on the southeast side of the wildlife management area, the small hill looks out over the marsh. Although there are two viewing blinds nearby, the DWR recommended bringing scopes or binoculars.
“Because of their large size, swans are amazing birds to see in flight,” said DWR Northern Region Outreach Manager Mark Hadley. “You’ll have no problem spotting them — they’re huge and almost pure white in color.”
The DWR those who visit to stay behind closed gates.
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is found 12 miles away from Brigham City. It is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The DWR recommends following the refuge’s auto tour route, a 12-mile loop running through the middle of the area.
After exiting I-15 at exit 363 and following West Forest Street west, visitors will find a parking lot and an observation tower. According to the DWR, the tower can be used to observe migrating swans in the marsh.
Then, as visitors follow the 12-mile scenic route, thousands of swans can be viewed in surrounding wetlands.
Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area
Although the waterfowl management area is closed to vehicles between March and September, the education center and nearby trails remain open.
The DWR said migrating swans sometimes appear near the Eccles Wildlife Education Center at Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area.
The Eccles Wildlife Education Center is open Tuesday to Saturday between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
According to the Utah Division of Wildlife, the education center features a 1.6-mile scenic trail, which is stroller and wheelchair accessible. Dogs are allowed but required to be on a leash. A taxidermied trumpeter swan is also on display at the education center, allowing visitors an up close and personal view.
Directions to reach the education center can also be found on the Division of Wildlife’s website.
Alternatively, the DWR said swans may appear near the nearby Robert N. Hasenyager Great Salt Lake Nature Reserve trails. They are open daily from dawn to dusk.
AllTrails lists the 1.3-mile trail is easy, however, dogs are not allowed.
