July 9, 2009
Last night as dusk approached, the river beckoned. It was a beautiful evening, warm, with a slight breeze, too nice to stay inside. I was anxious to see if I could find the cygnets about whom I had written on June 21, when they were first born. I had heard about 10 days ago that one of them had not survived. Would the rest still be living?
It was a great joy therefore to spot the family receiving an evening snack.
I was so pleased to discover that this good citizen knew to feed them greens. She informed me that the stores here are quite willing to let her have lettuce that is past its prime. This family of swans seemed very comfortable with her and ate voraciously, even taking a leaf from her hand.
The little ones are obviously thriving, still with their fuzzy baby feathers, but definitely growing and healthy.
We continued on our walk, enjoying the magic of the sunset, intrigued to spot a duck among the clouds.
Turning reluctantly to head for home, we came upon yet another evening feast.
This time the hostess was serving corn, and an eager crowd had gathered to partake! Several swans crowded around her including the bully who I described on June 15, this time well behaved and even eating politely from her hand.
The newest additions to our waterfowl were there as well, a very interesting-looking pair of Chinese geese.
Night had definitely fallen. Reluctantly we turned our steps towards home, but our hearts were light with the joy of watching mankind and nature interacting in such a mutually appreciative way.
It looks like there will be plenty of entertainment from the herd again this year.
