The bird selected for April on my wildlife calendar is the black swan. Native to Australia and the State Bird of Western Australia, black swans were introduced to the UK as ornamental birds to enhance the country estates of wealthy land owners, presumably in Victorian times. Like many such imports some have escaped into the wild and might be seen occasionally on any large body of water.
I have only seen a black swan twice at ANR, once in April 2018 and again in November 2019. In this shot it appears small compared with the mute swans surrounding it.
The white wing feathers are usually well hidden by the predominantly black plumage. The red bill is matched by the striking red eyes.
As we approach the Easter weekend and Spring is “bustin’ out all o-over!” may I wish you all a Happy Easter and renewed hope for a happy and healthy year to come as exemplified by these gorgeous mute swan cygnets.
Very interesting post Raymond. Happy and peaceful Easter. Mike
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Thanks – Hope you enjoy your Easter.
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Arrrrhhhhh…… beautiful pics! Love the babies! Fantastic close-ups of the black swan! Do the red eyes signify bad eyesight ….. as in albinos?
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Not sure about the red-eye – maybe it’s over indulgence 🙂
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