Shy

Tundra Swans, Cygnus columbianus (link to allaboutbirds.org), are majestic, breathtakingly marvellous birds to watch. As they migrate through our part of the world on their way to their breeding ground, many stop and rest in harvested corn fields. When resting they congregate in large flocks that sometimes number in the hundreds or thousands.

They are also wary of humans, flying away when we become too intrusive. I was fortunate to approach within about 100 meters. After taking this photo I withdrew to leave them in peace.

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Another harbinger

Another harbinger

We live on (under) the Tundra Swans’ flyway between their wintering grounds on the US East Coast and their summer home in Canadian North. We eagerly anticipate seeing them every year, and our first sighting was almost two weeks ago. Beautiful, majestic birds, bringing inspiration and hope after a long and hard winter.