Many birds become fiercely protective of their territories now that it is breeding and nesting season. Driving along a road that separates the Charles River from a large cove, we saw a lone, small mute swan getting attacked by a pair of swans. It made its way to the edge and onto the road, walking slowly down the center. These birds are intelligent, and it was aware that an attack will only be carried out on the water. It shivered off droplets and rested, able to comfort itself.
But the swan was not safe on the road, so we attempted to guide it to the roadside, unsuccessfully. A neighbor arrived with a broom and tried as well, but the bird settled down comfortably just in front of the car! It felt safe with us, evidently.
He called rescue, and they arrived with food to sprinkle at the edge, but were not successful in capturing the bird, even though it seemed unable to fly. At least it was out of the road and away from the swan pair, as we waited until rescue’s return the following day.
The next day, we saw the neighbor, who was chatting with onlookers who had become attached to our swan, no longer with us. Upon arriving at Tufts Animal Hospital, a large wound was discovered under one wing, and the swan was euthanized. We are comforted that we surrounded the bird with care, but are saddened by its loss.
Mute swans are not native to the US, as they were brought here from Eurasia in the 1800s to adorn parks and private ponds. They became invasive when they escaped, aggressive to native species and depleting our water plants.
The next day, all appeared quiet at the cove until a pair of juvenile bald eagles swooped in! One flew on wavering wings close to the surface, its head moving back and forth to spot fish below. It captured one and flew off quickly to a tall treetop with its prey. The other landed on a small outcrop in the cove, caught a small fish, and then ate it. After, it moved to a stick in the water and remained motionless there for hours.
It is unusual to see these birds here, yet in a few days we saw them soar over far trees bordering the cove! Perhaps we have found a good location to catch a glimpse of this magnificent bird species.
Meanwhile, the original swan pair was seen on a tall nest in the water. The female sat on her eggs, and the male policed the immediate area, peacefully, as no intruders were there.
As we left, we observed fat, puffed-up sparrows on a bush near the road, keeping warm in the still, chill winds.
I just adore the photo, this may be shorter, but has lots of information, the death of the swan, family of swans, sparrows, etc., sometimes more is said in less, or less is more, regardless, wonderful article, I loved it, as always, your biggest fan, Joyce
What a lovely photograph of a mute swan and how movingly Elsa describes the saga of the particular mute swan who was attacked and unable to thrive. I marvel at how Elsa seems to know the circumstances of the various birds that she spots. This account of the mute swan is particularly sad. What is encouraging is that caring people such as Elsa and the neighbor and Rescue happened to be around to provide some solace at the end of the swan’s life. Well done, Elsa.
As always, your nature column provides a glimpse into a world that goes unnoticed as we usually pass by. Thank you for your beautiful writing. It is a welcome break.