Wednesday, March 25, 2015

Swans



Migrants are arriving regularly now as the season progresses. On a large pond there was a flock of Canada geese that numbered well over one hundred; but more interesting were the tundra swans, seven in number.
As a red-tailed hawk circled overhead –  

All of the geese took to the air –


Leaving the pond to the swans –

And one lone male ring-necked duck

Back when I was a young naturalist (instead of an old naturalist) tundra swans were known as whistling swans and before that they were called American swans - and then there's the scientific name (Cygnus columbianus). Like many other birds their name has been changed over the years – they must be confused by the fickleness of the humans who name them.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

How lovely to see the swans! Nice shots.

Powell River Books said...

When we drive through the Skagit Valley in Washington we see lots of swans on the fields. I understand from a blogging friend who lives there that several fields are set up to encourage the migrating birds to spend the winter rather than on farmer's fields. I don't know who successful it is though. I always see them up and down the freeway in different fields. - Margy

eileeninmd said...

The swans are beautiful! Great sightings.. Thank you so much for sharing your post and linking up! Have a happy weekend!

Unknown said...

Swans are always lovely to see.

Inspired By June said...

Always a treat! So graceful, wonderful shots. Thanks for sharing, Woody!