Trumpeter Swans in the Twin Cities

I discovered that Trumpeter Swans congregate most of the winter in Shoreview in the channel connecting Sucker Lake to Vadnais Lake, just south of Sucker Lake. These lakes are part of the water supply system for the City of St. Paul. Mississippi River water is captured in Fridley and routed thru a series of lakes.  The steady flow of water keeps the channel open in the winter and so it becomes a wildlife oasis.  A scenic trail circles Sucker Lake and goes right along side the channel. Normally in winter this is a groomed X/C ski trail but the lack of snow this winter favored hiking.  Click here for a google map that shows where to park and where to view the Trumpeters. It's only a 5 minute walk from the parking lot.

The Swans hold tight even with when accompanied by a predator;albeit a leashed one!