Now for something completely different

Cygnus atratus. The black swan. Parents and cygnets.

These were seen at Western Springs this morning in the drizzly rain. There were a number of families seen as I went around the lakes. At least one had cygnets younger (smaller) than these, and there was one family group where the cygnets were about the size of the common goose which is common here. About as common as the swans.

The swans were introduced to New Zealand in the 1860s as a game bird, although they were probably self introduced (blown across the Tasman) at about the same time. They establish themselves on lakes, or in lagoons or estuaries. They are strongly territorial and will certainly try and chase away human interlopers. On this morning's run I was eyed with distaste by any number of large black cobs. I chose to stay back and not disturb the little ones. No fear at all.

They generally nest beside the water in a large nest made of grass and other vegetation. I was interested to see that only a third of birds in any breeding area will nest . Eggs (3 - 10) are laid from July until February, so I'm informed.

On 30 May I got a photo of a pair with similar sized cygnets and put it on my blipfolio; a little out of the breeding season.