The swan you describe may be a Trumpeter, but more than likely, it is a juvenile Mute Swan which has not gotten its adult coloration (i.e., full white feathers and reddish/orange bill). In either case, the swan is probably a young juvenile whose parents have kicked him from their nesting habitat and he is trying to find one of his own. There is also the possibility that it was on the migration path and has stopped temporarily to eat and rest before it continues on its way. As long as the habitat is adequate for food, protection from predators and inclement weather, and suitable for nesting, then the greater probability that the swan will take this habitat for its own.

Because the swan is not bothered by kayakers and people and the geese are, means that the juvenile swan is not ready to mate this year (i.e., its hormones have not reached a level so that it becomes defensive of its territory and young).

Another issue regarding whether the swan will stay is the chances of finding a mate for next year's nesting season. If a mate is not in the area, the swan may look to find one and may or may not return to your area. The Regal Swan
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