Seward, Alaska
While checking on the Nash Road Trumpeter Swan family, I spotted a large moose standing at the back of the wetlands. Usually, the occasional moose grazes placidly, moving imperceptibly if at all. Not this one!
Almost as soon as I pulled over, the moose pranced up to the water and plunged in. MALLARDS and at least two male RING-NECKED DUCKS scattered in alarm ahead of the unusual intrusion into their peaceful pond. On he came, water splashing as he half-swam, half-trotted across to a shallow area lush with water horsetails. He slowed momentarily, grabbed a bite but then began bucking like a bronco at a rodeo.
As he zig-zagged closer, bucking and splashing, I could see his emerging antlers like thick dowels covered in dark velvet. Definitely a mature bull. Whenever he stopped and posed, he was magnificent, water dripping from his long bell and belly. Then, as if a swarm of invisible bees stung him, he shot off into the pond, sometimes plunging into the deep where he was forced to swim, and then through shallow areas where he kicked up volumes of water.
He emerged, dripping, on the south side of the wetlands in the green sedges. He stood for a bit, posing again, and then suddenly seemed to become aware of the road and passing traffic. Caught by surprise, he turned and galloped away from the road and disappeared into the trees. Wow! What a show! Never think you can outrun one of these guys!
Now that the berserk moose was gone, I wondered where the Swan family was during all this action. Waaayyy back, an alert white periscope head peered over the sedges. Luckily, the little family was safe, tucked away to the side. Lucky for the moose, that is. He is big, but they are fierce!
Happy Birding!
Carol Griswold
Seward Sporadic Bird Report Reporter
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