Watercolor portrait of Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus)

Tundra Swan

Cygnus columbianus
Breeds in Alaska and northern Canada Arctic tundra ponds and lakes in summer Uncommon Territorial display

Learn to identify the Tundra Swan by ear. Master the "whu-hoo-hoo-hoo" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“whu-hoo-hoo-hoo”

What the Tundra Swan sounds like

The Tundra Swan is an elegant, medium-sized swan that breeds on the remote Arctic tundra and spends the non-breeding season on coastal estuaries, large lakes, and agricultural fields farther south. Compared with other North American swans, it is slightly smaller and more delicate in build, with a short neck and a distinctive high-pitched call that often reveals its presence before it is seen.

“whu-hoo-hoo-hoo”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:Long series of mellow, whistled hoots given by pairs on breeding territory, especially at dawn. Often written as “whu-hoo-hoo-hoo”.
Don't confuse with:The Trumpeter Swan — tundra swan smaller overall with shorter neck.

Where you'll hear it

Arctic tundra ponds and lakes in summer; coastal bays, estuaries, large freshwater lakes, flooded fields, and river deltas in winter and on migration.

Arrives on breeding grounds May–June; molts and rears young June–August; departs southward late September–October; most reach wintering areas November–March; spring migration peaks March–April.

Similar species

Trumpeter Swan

Tundra Swan smaller overall with shorter neck.

Mute Swan

Mute Swan has orange bill with prominent black knob.

Snow Goose

Snow Goose much smaller, with shorter neck and pink bill.

Tundra Swan sound FAQ

What does a Tundra Swan sound like?
Long series of mellow, whistled hoots given by pairs on breeding territory, especially at dawn. Listen for the "whu-hoo-hoo-hoo" phrase.
How do I tell a Tundra Swan from a Trumpeter Swan by sound?
Trumpeter Swan: Tundra Swan smaller overall with shorter neck.; Trumpeter bill all black (rare yellow spot).; Tundra’s call higher-pitched, more musical..
When is the best time to hear a Tundra Swan?
Arrives on breeding grounds May–June; molts and rears young June–August; departs southward late September–October; most reach wintering areas November–March; spring migration peaks March–April.