Blind Slough Swan Viewing Area
Description:
Blind Slough is an important migration stopover and wintering area for trumpeter swans. Several hundred of these large waterfowl stop here between mid-October and early December to feed and rest before continuing the next leg of their journey. Blind Slough is near the small coastal community of Petersburg.
Viewing Information:
Look for migrating and wintering trumpeter swans feeding and resting at Blind Rapids, the observatory, and the hatchery. Swans are often seen with their heads and necks submerged in the water, feeding on underwater roots of marsh plants. Approximately 50 - 75 swans overwinter at Blind Slough.
It is important not to disturb the swans from late December to late February. Viewing from a distance with binoculars or spotting scope will minimize disturbance and provide excellent views of these beautiful birds. Approaching too closely, unleashed pets, or driving snowmachines at Blind Slough will cause unnecessary disturbance of the swans and could be fatal to them later in the winter.
Safety First:
Take extra care when you travel in coastal Alaska. Hypothermia is a danger throughout the year. Warm clothes and rain gear are essential for a safe and comfortable visit to the Southeast Alaska.
This is bear country! Use common sense when you travel in the backcountry and always remember to keep a clean camp.
Directions:
Take Mitkof Highway south from Petersburg and continue on the paved road to Blind River Rapids (mile 14.2), the Trumpeter Swan Observatory (mile 16.1), and Crystal Lake Fish Hatchery.
Ownership & Management:
USDA Forest Service, Tongass National Forest; Petersburg Ranger District (907) 772-3871
Closest Town:
Petersburg, Alaska
Best Viewing Season:
Spring and fall
Swans at Blind Slough
Trumpeter swans are the largest member of the waterfowl family. These elegant, large birds remain white throughout the year. The young, or cygnets, are grayish and begin to acquire their white adult plumage during their second summer.
Small numbers of tundra swans, a close relative, can be found amoung the trumpeters at Blind Slough. A closer look will reveal a different shaped bill, concave compared to trumpeters, and a small yellow spot on the bill near the eye.
It is important to not disturb the swans from late December to late February. Viewing from a distance with binoculars or spotting scope will minimize disturbance and provide excellent views of these beautiful birds. Approaching too closely, unleashed pets, or driving snowmachines at Blind Slough will cause unnecessary disturbance of the swans and could be fatal to them later in the winter.
When trumpeter swans see a possible threat they stop whatever activity they are doing and raise their head to get a better view. If there is no threat they will continue their activity. If they feel threatened they will call -- a loud trumpeting -- to alert other swans, swim farther from shore, or head for water if on land. If the threat persists, they will swim for deeper water or take flight and move to a different area.
As winter progresses and the slough freezes, food sources are limited, and more time is spent resting to conserve energy. By late January the swans are at a critical stage. With food sources and fat reserves low, some swans begin to weaken. Disturbances at this time of year are dangerous for them and could seriously impact their survival. Please use common sense and do not bother the swans at this time.