Tundra swans gather in Waterloo as spring migration gets underway

Dozens of tundra swans stopped by a pond near Kressler Road and Benjamin Road in Waterloo, Ont. on March 25, 2026. (Hannah Schmidt/CTV News)

Birdwatchers in Waterloo were treated to a beautiful sight as nearly 100 tundra swans stopped at a nearby pond during their migration.

The birds gathered at a seasonal pond formed by melting snow, creating a brief but reliable resting spot for a variety of waterfowl.

Local birdwatchers say the site has become a hotspot, with sightings shared online prompting others to visit.

“There’s a number of Canada geese ... and there’s also some really interesting ducks, not just the mallards,” said birdwatcher Lisa Den Besten. “There’s these gorgeous birds called pintail. There’s Eurasian or American widgeon. And there’s also some redheads in there too that I’ve found so far.”

Den Besten says the presence of tundra swans at this time of year is not unusual, as the birds migrate north from their wintering grounds along the eastern United States, including areas such as Chesapeake Bay.

“I think they started flocking here just as the snow was melting and this pond was forming,” Den Besten explained. “I’m not exactly sure what makes this an amazing spot. It could partially be that this is a cornfield. For the swans, it can make a nice little snack for them for on their migratory route.”

For Den Besten, the gathering is more than just a seasonal sight.

“I grew up always loving nature,” she said. “I grew up on a farm, and my dad was always interested in nature. It just makes me feel so good to be out here ... it’s almost like meditation because I don’t think about anything else. I just enjoy what I see before me.”