Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus), Nutrioso Lake, Apache County

This Tundra Swan was photographed by Eric Hough on 20 February 2009 at Nutrioso Lake.  A local man claimed it has been here for about 5 weeks. He also said that last winter (2007-2008) three juveniles were present that showed up in gray plumage and turned white during their stay, which would indicate that they were Tundra Swans, as well.

Rare in winter in region.

In this photo you can see that the eye is separated from the bill by a very narrow strip of facial skin. Not all Tundras show this clear a separation of the eye from the bill, but when present in adults it is nearly diagnostic for Tundra.

20 February 2009, photo by Eric Hough