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26 June 2024 Winter movements and site fidelity of Trumpeter Swans (Cygnus buccinator) in the Nebraska Sandhills
Mark P. Vrtiska, Dessalegn Ejigu, Larkin A. Powell
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Understanding of a migratory bird species' movements and winter fidelity provides insights to various population and genetic parameters that may support conservation efforts. Trumpeter Swans (Cygnus buccinator) were reintroduced into the Nebraska Sandhills beginning in the 1960s but knowledge of the ecology of these birds is limited. We examined the winter movements, home range, and fidelity of swans in the Nebraska Sandhills, 2014–2020. We captured and fitted solar-powered GPS transmitters via neck collars to swans during the summer molting period. We used movement patterns and weather data to define timing of transitions from breeding and post-breeding areas to wintering areas. The research findings showed that only one swan made a long-distance movement out of Nebraska during the winter. Mean distance (±SD) moved from breeding or post-breeding areas to their initial wintering complex was 53.4 (±52.7) km. Swans spent most (77.2%) of their time on one wintering complex and 75% of their time at one wintering site. Swans used an average of 2.7 different wintering complexes and moved among complexes 6.4 (±3.6) times. Swans in our sample used an average of 1.5 wintering sites within complexes and moved 3.1 (±3.6) times among wintering sites. Swan fidelity (proportion returning) to wintering complexes was 0.72 and to wintering sites was 0.69. Return rate to their primary wintering complex and site was 100%. Fidelity rates to wintering complexes of swans with cygnets at time of capture and those without were 0.79 and 0.55, respectively. Swan movements in the Nebraska Sandhills indicate that they are willing to move among areas but tend to show fidelity to wintering areas. Changes in wintering habitat may alter patterns of fidelity, but swans may be able to adapt and move to alternative areas. Rivers, creeks, and other areas are important to wintering swans breeding in the Nebraska Sandhills and contribute to the sustainable conservation of swans.

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Mark P. Vrtiska, Dessalegn Ejigu, and Larkin A. Powell "Winter movements and site fidelity of Trumpeter Swans (Cygnus buccinator) in the Nebraska Sandhills," The Wilson Journal of Ornithology 136(2), 134-142, (26 June 2024). https://doi.org/10.1676/23-00018
Received: 13 March 2023; Accepted: 9 March 2024; Published: 26 June 2024
KEYWORDS
GPS transmitters
habitat
High Plains Flock
post-breeding
wintering complex
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