Danger lurks around every corner for the nesting swans! If the nest survives wind, rain, (and even snow this year), and rising water, there are predators to consider. I found this turtle this morning trying to dig its way under the chain link fence to get into the wetland nesting area. I did have a friendly word with the harbour master, suggesting that the turtle might be much happier in the waters on the other side of the road, away from the nest area.
It's the wrong time of day to photograph the nesting swans, but I couldn't stay away. The wind is high and the bay quite choppy. The waves are breaking over the break wall that shelters the nest area. The nest is still above water. The pen was working frantically to stuff more grass into it. This pair of mute swans is so close to hatching time. They have passed the 30 day mark and the incubation period is 34-41 days. I hope the nest is still there tomorrow morning!
I can happily report that after yesterday's high winds and rising water level the swans' nest is still intact! In this shot the cob is keeping an eye on me as the pen dries off before settling back on the nest after feeding.
