Update on the swan family

Some of you will have read here about the sad death of Daddy Swan in the park.  He was killed by a dog, protecting the eggs.  I’m happy to report that Mama Swan seems to be doing very well!  Yesterday she had her brood out and about on the pond.

Mama swan and her eight cygnets. June 2014.

They were all eating the weeds underwater, until it was time to head back to the nest.  I love the orderly queue formed behind Mama.  All eight cygnets were beak to tail in almost military precision:

Swimming off in an orderly line!

Meanwhile, the duck family had taken over the swans’ nest:

Mama duck and her family.

Mama duck is on the left, and her growing ducklings are to her right.  They have grown a lot since last month.  I presume they would have hopped off when the swans returned?

A blue heron.

I think there are two herons who live in the park, but I’m not sure.  Anyhow, a sleepy blue heron was having his afternoon nap.  It’s wonderful to me that so much wildlife is supported by a city park.  There are also baby moor hens, different types of gulls, and no doubt other creatures that I’m unaware of.

I hope you’re all having a really good week!