Seward, Alaska
Ha! “100% chance of rain!” Boy, was that forecast wrong. Not a drop. A strong NNW wind with gusts to 25 mph kicked up but only drove the clouds higher not away and generated a small craft advisory on Resurrection Bay for the Silver Salmon Derby. The wind seemed warm with temps in the low 60s. Might rain, or might not this coming week.
The Nash Road TRUMPETER SWAN family lingered nearer the road this afternoon for a good look. The dad thoroughly preened his already gorgeous plumage and obligingly stretched his powerful wings. The pure white wings of angels and Pegasus had to be inspired by a Swan.
Nearby, mom escorted the two 2-month old cygnets through the water horsetail buffet where they all enjoyed all-you-can-eat. The cygnets continue to thrive under the parents’ watchful eyes. Both have light gray bodies, darker gray necks, and gray-brown heads. One cygnet’s pink bill is black by the forehead extending along the edge to the tip. The other’s bill remains all pink by the forehead, making it easier to tell them apart for now. No facial skin yet extends to the eyes.
I differentiate the slightly larger cob (male) from the pen (female) by the distinctive mark on his neck. The black facial skin connecting the beak to the eye is thicker than the mom’s.
After completing his grooming, the refreshed cob gracefully eased into the water and paddled with purpose to join his beautiful family. I am ever so grateful that two of their four babies survived their tumultuous and treacherous beginning.
I checked on the three 2019 cygnets at Preacher Pond across the highway from Nash Road. They too, seem to be thriving by sticking together. I’m amazed how tolerant they are of the nearby workers, clearcutting and wood-chipping. One Swan even sat on a pile of wood chips next to the pond while its siblings preened and fed.
As one stretched its angel wings just like its dad, I could see all those feathers are now white. Only a bit of the head remains gray-brown. Interestingly, the facial skin pattern thickness differs on these Swans too. I wonder if it reflects gender or just genes. I’ll likely never know, but it’s fun to see the family traits.
Happy Birding!
Carol Griswold
Seward Sporadic Bird Report Reporter
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