Down by the waters' edge

I’ve always been a bit wary of swans, and this pair were no doubt specially protective of their young — all nine of them.
I found these at low tide on the edge of Southampton Water where the River Test is not quite open sea, yet nevertheless tidal.  This spot of dry land on which they were to be found will disappear when the tide begins to rise.
For the moment though there was food to be found on the river bed, and shallow waters made an ideal environment for the young ones to find their feet, or paddling action.
You cannot help but admire their serenity, both adults and young alike.  I well remember the occasion when walking across a river bridge in a city centre in Eastern Europe when a swan landed literally at my feet with a sickening thud, plummeting from the sky while in flight.  It had flown into overhead power cables.

This family at the waters edge are a picture of tranquillity.  Their composure at home in a wild life reserve reflect the majesty of these magnificent birds, and fingers’ crossed that they never meet the fate of the one I encountered all those years ago.