Annual Closure Set For Important Trumpeter Swan Nests At Sand Creek WMA

St. Anthony - For the thirteenth straight year, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game will restrict human access and delay the start of fishing season in two ponds at the Sand Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA) to help isolate two pairs of nesting trumpeter swans. The nesting trumpeters are located on Ponds 2 and 4 in the main pond complex. Fishing and public access will be restricted in these areas until July 1. Trumpeter swans are generally intolerant of human disturbance during the nesting period, particularly if the nesting pair are young birds or if the nesting territory was established in the absence of human activity. A common result of human disturbance is nest abandonment and the resulting loss of production for the year. The two active nests at Sand Creek WMA are of special importance because historically there have been only eight active trumpeter swan nests in the Upper Snake Region, and Sand Creek has had two of them. Concern for successful nesting of trumpeter swans is high because the birds are listed as a Priority Species under the Species of Special Concern designation in Idaho. This listing means that they are to receive as much protection as necessary to promote successful nesting. Young swans, or cygnets, have been produced every year since restrictions have been imposed and Sand Creek has been a major contributor to the local trumpeter swan population. The Upper Snake River Valley continues to play a leading role in the recovery of these magnificent birds. The cooperation of sportsmen at Sand Creek will help insure the success of the recovery efforts. To provide recreational fishing opportunities, Ponds 1 and 3 will be stocked with a good number of rainbow trout and for the opening of fishing on May 27th.