Originally native to Ontario, the Trumpeter swan's extirpation from eastern Canada over 200 years ago was primarily due to hunting pressure and habitat loss. Biologist Harry Lumsden began a provincial reintroduction program in the early 1980's to re-establish the Trumpeter swan in its former habitat and range.

With prime wetland habitat, and archaeological evidence confirming the historical presence of Trumpeters in the Wye Valley, Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre became a co-operator in the restoration of this magnificent species in 1989. The original captive breeding pair of Trumpeters at Wye Marsh were "Big Guy" and "Lady Girl". Big Guy and Lady successfully raised the first cygnet in 1990, and she became known as "Pig Pen". In 1993, Pig Pen and her mate became the first wild nesting pair of Trumpeters in Wye Marsh in over 200 years.

Interested In Becoming Involved?

There are a number of ways for wildlife enthusiasts and interested members of surrounding communities to continue their involvement in the Wye Marsh Trumpeter Swan Program. To continue thorough monitoring, we encourage the public to continue to send in their reports of Trumpeter Swans sightings. Sightings include all Trumpeter Swans, tagged and/or banded, untagged, adult and cygnets, and should include as much information as possible, such as location, total number of individuals, general comments about behaviour, appearance and health, etc.

Another great way to become involved is by joining our team of dedicated volunteers! By becoming an official Wye Marsh volunteer in the Swan Program, you will be trained by qualified staff to feed and monitor wild Trumpeters, monitor and care for our permanent resident swans, and join our animal care team dedicated to the care and recovery of sick and injured Trumpeter Swans.

We Couldn't Have Done It Alone

The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre relies on financial contributions from individuals and organizations to be able to continue this important work. The Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre urges the surrounding community to be proud of its involvement in the Trumpeter Swan Program. We are honoured to be a part of efforts that have successfully restored an incredible species that was once nearly extinct. This exciting milestone reached would not have been possible without the help and dedication of the many volunteers and supporters of this program.

Thank you all for your assistance!