History of Trumpeter Swans
During the 19th century Trumpeter Swans were abundant throughout North America. However, overhunting and domestication of their habitats (lakes, rivers, flatlands,and esturaries) caused the Trumpeter Swan population to decrease near to extinction .They were hunted for their meat, skins, and down (used for powder puffs, fill for bedding, and other commercial uses). Due to protection laws, like the Migratory Bird mTreaty Act, and public awarness the Trumpeter Swan population increased. The population grew from 700 in 1974 to 2,200 in 1992 (Neithammer, 1992). Now the Trumpeter Swans are seen as a vulnerable species instead of an endangered species.