LIST AND DESCRIPTION 59 
SUB FAMILY CYGNINAD. SWANS 
The Swan is the largest of the Family Anatidae, and is 
hardly considered a game bird. It has a very graceful form and is 
largely used in a semi-domesticated state in parks and private 
bird preserves. Only two species are found in America, The 
Trumpeter Swan is practically extinct, probably only a few speci- 
mens remaining in captivity. 
180. WHIsTLING SWAN (Olor columbianus.) 
Length about fifty-five inches; all white except bill and 
feet, which are black; yellow spot in front of eyes; nostrils nearer 
to tip of bill than eyes. Breeds within the Arctic Circle; rare, 
but a few are reported in migration from the State each year. 
181. TRUMPETER SWAN (Olor buccinator.) - 
Very similar in color to the Whistling Swan but larger, 
and no yellow spot before the eyes. The nostrils about midway 
between eyes and tip of bill. 
This beautiful bird nested in South Dakota in the eighties 
. but no specimen has been seen for several years and it is be- 
lieved to be nearly extinct 
FAMILY ARDEIDZ. BITTERNS AND HERONS 
190. BitTERN (Botaurus lentiginosus.) “THUNDER PUMPER,” 
“SHITEPOKE.” 
A very common summer resident, especially in the high 
grassy sloughs of the eastern part of the State, where it nests 
and makes its home. It stands about eighteen inches high and 
feeds principally on frogs. At times, when seemingly trying to 
evade detection, it stands erect with bill pointing skyward. As- 
sisted by the resemblance of its plumage to surroundings it thus 
secures protection from its enemies. This bird, however, would 
seem to need no protection. It is not hunted for food by man, 
and we have never known it to be eaten by Hawk, Owl, or 
coyote. Surely any flesh-eating animal or bird would be near 
to starvation before eating a Bittern. Body very small for size 
of bird; head small; black patch extending down sides of neck; 
back and sides buff and brown mixed; lighter underneath. 
