Wild swans will be migrating through Utah during the month of March.
BRIGHAM CITY — Wild swans are back in Utah and Box Elder County has two locations where people can gander at the majestic birds. People can find the swans at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge and the Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area during the month of March.
The large white majestic birds are currently migrating through Utah and making stops in Box Elder County so, typically, the two locations are a great place to see them. Division of Wildlife Resources suggests bringing binoculars or a spotting scope to get a good view of the birds.
“Swans are graceful, beautiful birds,” Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Regional Outreach Manager Mark Hadley said. “And you’ll have no problem spotting them: they’re huge and almost pure white in color. If you’ve never seen swans in the wild before, I encourage you to get out and see them this spring.”
Both tundra swans and trumpeter swans rest in Utah’s wetlands for some much-needed rest and refueling during their annual spring migration. The migration takes the swans from wintering grounds in California to nesting sites in Canada and Alaska.
The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge Auto Tour is about 12 miles west of Brigham City’s I-15 exit 363 on West Forest Street. Travel on West Forest Street until you come to a large parking area with a viewing tower, then follow the signs. The 12-mile auto tour route will take you through the heart of the refuge. There should be plenty of swans in the wetlands along the driving route.
The Salt Creek Waterfowl Management Area is about 12 miles northwest of Corinne. The Compton’s Knoll viewing area — a small hill on the southeast side of the WMA — is an excellent place to view swans and other wildlife. The rest of the WMA is closed until September, so please stay behind closed all gates and view swans only from Compton’s Knoll.
The DWR has canceled all viewing events this year, but there are plenty of opportunities to get out and see swans on your own.
While driving around looking for swans DWR wants motorists to please do so safely. Don’t stop in the middle of the road if you see a swan. Instead, pull completely off the road before viewing. The safety visitors and the safety of other motorists, comes first.