Seeing seven swans yesterday was both a pleasure and a disappointment. It was a pleasure to be able to watch these magnificent Trumpeter Swans; Yet, it was a disappointment that once again, they were Trumpeters rather than Tundras.
Two species of swans migrate through this region — indeed through all of the southern interior of the Province: Trumpeter Swans and Tundra Swans. If we go back three decades, most of the migrating swans were Tundras. At that time, one yearned to see a few Trumpeters. Now most of the migrants are Trumpeters, and now one yearns to see a few Tundras.
What has brought about the transition? I do not know. But, it remains: I now fervently watch for Tundra Swans.
Three (of seven swans seen were) magnificent Trumpeter Swans swim across the water.
One left the group and then flew past me.
After it alighted, it realized it was being watched, and barked its displeasure.
It then drifted away across the water.
I suspect that most of the explanation lies with the massive increase in numbers of Trumps. In the Lower mainland, both swans were few and local around 40 years ago. Trumps are now abundant here but Tundras remain few and difficult to find. This is mostly my impression – others might have more info to offer on this.
Just 19 days short of the 7th day of Christmas…which would be Dec. 31 for “Seven swans a swimming”!