Over the past few days, during a welcome spell of sunny and calm weather, I have seen some water birds giving themselves a real wash and brush up. At the end of a long winter I think they were sprucing themselves up ready for Spring, no doubt to impress a new partner, or keep things fresh with their existing one!
Last Thursday morning I watched the two swans, who frequent the ponds on the golf course next door, having a good bath. It was balletic - Swan Lake in action. They dipped their whole bodies in and out of the water, scooping their necks and backs in and out in graceful dips and dives. Then the female rose up out of the water and stretched out her wings to shake the droplets off. It was a magical display to watch. Sadly I didn't have my camera with me - note to self!
On Friday I walked with my cousin (who has been staying with us for a few days) around the lakes at Gosford House. The grey lag geese were in a similar mood to the swans. However, they were significantly more noisy and less elegant than the swans! There was a lot of noise, squawking and splashing about, and they were really enjoying themselves.
The whole process was being overseen by two sagely herons, perched high up in a conifer. Maybe they were also checking out the tree for this year's heronry.
It was such a pleasure to walk in sunshine, with still waters and just birdsong as a soundtrack. No wind, only peace and quiet.
Last Thursday morning I watched the two swans, who frequent the ponds on the golf course next door, having a good bath. It was balletic - Swan Lake in action. They dipped their whole bodies in and out of the water, scooping their necks and backs in and out in graceful dips and dives. Then the female rose up out of the water and stretched out her wings to shake the droplets off. It was a magical display to watch. Sadly I didn't have my camera with me - note to self!
On Friday I walked with my cousin (who has been staying with us for a few days) around the lakes at Gosford House. The grey lag geese were in a similar mood to the swans. However, they were significantly more noisy and less elegant than the swans! There was a lot of noise, squawking and splashing about, and they were really enjoying themselves.
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