Trumpeter swan
(Cygnus buccinator)
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Waterfowl
Waterfowl are considered some of the most beautiful animals in the world. They are distributed around the globe in every continent except Antarctica. They are migratory, often traveling great distances and asending to incredible heights between summer and winter ranges. Waterfowl are generally outstanding swimmers. These birds are also distinguished by waterproof feathers covering a warm layer of down. Waterfowl are threatened by loss of habitat and pollution, including oil spills and runoff.
Ducks
Ducks have the smallest body size among the waterfowl. They inhabit every continent except Antarctica. Their legs are generally positioned near the rear of their bodies and set far apart. This makes them fantastic swimmers, but rather clumsy walkers. Most ducks have bills designed to strain plants and aquatic invertebrates from the water for food. Typically, males are brightly colored, and the females are brown or earth-toned.
Geese
Almost all geese live in the northern hemisphere. They nest in arctic and temperate biomes. The only geese that live in the southern hemisphere are sheldgeese. Only the females are actually geese. The males are called ganders and the young are goslings. Except for sheldgeese, males and females have an identical physical appearance. Geese are usually larger than ducks and smaller than swans.
Swans
Swans are the largest of all waterfowl. They are identified by their size and their long agile necks. Swans inhabit the northern and southern hemispheres. Young are called cygnets. Swans have the longest lifespans of all waterfowl, living more than 30 years.
Screamers
Screamers are the most divergent group of waterfowl. They live close to the water and do swim, but they do not have webbed feet characteristic of ducks, swans, and geese. Screamers are tropical waterfowl, requiring temperatures that remain above freezing. As their name suggests, they have a loud, piercing call when vocalizing.
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