Hiatus Over

I usually get out a number of times during the winter to do some shooting. I love the way that snow softens things and gives such a different texture to our everyday surroundings and scenery. Not so this winter-that-wasn't. Photographically, for me, it was very uninspiring, a pretty bland and mediocre season. Not that I'm totally complaining. For getting around, lack of shovelling, and overall comfort, it couldn't have been better. But now that spring is on our doorstep, it's time to get out and enjoy a new season and the new life that it brings.

One of the definite signs of spring in this area is the migration of the Tundra Swans, the most widespread and numerous species of swan in North America. Of the two distinct populations of these birds, it is the the Eastern population (the other being the Western) that travels through Southern Ontario, as they make their spring migration between their Atlantic coast wintering areas and arctic coastline breeding grounds. These birds spend their winters in Chesapeake Bay, Maryland, and up to 60,000 of them fly through this area in spring. The swans are seen in this region from mid to late March and for about three weeks afterward. These photos were taken at the Aylmler Wildlife Management Area, host to many other birds as well. It makes for an impressive sight!


From one of the viewing stands ...




With such a large population, there tends to be some overcrowding, and the swans are not shy about declaring their "personal space" to their neighbours.










And when they're not snapping at their neighbour, they still squabble a lot.








Sentries keeping watch ...




Incoming!







I wonder if this Canada Goose realizes he's not like the others? :)