SUNDAY BY THE POND - Field Notes June 8, 2019

A cool clear morning, the shadows are long as the sun rises. I head out on the trail in search of the Trumpter Swans K09 and 038 and their family. If their cygnets have hatched, they will be very young. My visit one week ago was unproductive. I didn’t see or hear the adults, nor were there the usual tracks or droppings on the trail. My heart was heavy that day, wondering where they were or if something had happened to them.

Early morning long shadows….

A comfortable place to watch and wait.

Far in the distance I’m delighted to see K09 quietly preening his beautiful feathers

This lovely coyote strolled through, completely unaware of my presence.

Aerial Fisherman.

I was delighted to watch this Kingfisher hover over the pond, expertly dive to catch a fish then fly to a dead tree to consume it.

Tasty Morsel…

War of the “Kings”

There is always some sort of negotiation or protection of young and territory going on in the natural world especially in Spring. This Eastern Kingbird likely had young in it’s nest, and was rightfully protective and aggressive towards the Kingfisher who is known to take young birds as well as small fish and amphibians.

And then they appear…….my long wait is over.

The first view of the Trumpeter family. Breathtaking.

A Tender Moment

Cygnet of K09 and 038 watches it’s father. The cygnets are able to feed themselves as soon as they are born. The parents do scratch the pond bottom and loosen plant material helping their young feed successfully.