Flight of a Tundra Swan
There are large gatherings of swans on the prairie around Frank Lake right now. This area is on the migration path and I really enjoy getting to see these birds when they pass through. This Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus) was sharing a small flat of ice apart from a small group. I watched them, and they watched me for a few minutes.
Then they took their running launch to get into the sky. Heading into a steady headwind, they seemed to gain altitude very quickly once they were airborne.
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Tundra Swans in the Rockies
Lac des Arcs is a stopover for swans returning to the north. This year they have just started arriving.
I identified Tundra and Trumpeter swans. For most of the morning I was watching Tundra swans flying from one open pond in the ice to another.
It was a beautiful day in the Rockies with blue skies and a little fresh snow on the ground. I went to the western shore in the hopes that I would find some fliers that I could shoot into the sun as well as in shadow – the best of both worlds.
It was fun and I was pretty happy with the images.
I’m looking forward to heading out there again soon.
They are fantastic fliers, very fast and graceful. Their takeoff takes a few long strides while they get the wings going.
Christopher Martin Photography 