Posted by Ranger Sally (165.83.5.15) on October 09, 2003 at 14:28:00:
In Reply to: Why were Trumpeter Swans hunted posted by Chris Boudreaux on October 09, 2003 at 14:14:13:
: Why were Trumpeter Swans hunted so much when the species first arrived in America?
Hi Chris--thanks for your question. Actually, trumpeter swans are native to North America, rather than "arriving here." Early native people hunted them for food and for decorations (they carved the leg bones into musical instruments, crafted beads from other bones, and probably used the bird's plumage as well.) Beginning in the 1700s, trumpeter swans were widely hunted by people of European extraction for their skins. Their down was used as bedding, the plumage was desired for powder puffs and feathers in ladies' hats, and swan quills made excellent pens.