Cygnets and Swimming Lessons

Early morning in the nest another day begins.  
A bit of sprucing up before swimming lessons begin.

Both parents are in the water when Mum gives the call.  With lots of chirping they waddle around flapping their very tiny wings. A bit hesitant about how to get out of the nest when Mum calls again and one by one they slip, slide or tumble down the nest and into the water where they proceed to swim around with great excitment.  
When they have calmed down Mum leads the little cygnets out the front entrance into the main lake and Dad follows behind.
Mum takes the cygnets straight to where there is a strong current. Some are struggling to keep up but she patiently circles and waits while Dad takes the lead hissing at any other ducks who get too close. Its not long before they have regrouped and continue along their way, nibbling at growth on the lake edge and ducking to nibble growth under the water.
They travelled quite a distance today and Daughter E and I couldn't find them this afternoon - perhaps they have gone to visit their cousins upstream, another family with 5 cygnets.
Before departing from the nesting area father slightly rearranged the nest which we have not seen him do before, so not sure if they will be back.

We are hoping to have a day trip tomorrow, Hubby has recovered from the flu and its Daughter A's last Sunday with us before returning to Wellington, Daughter E is back to school after having study leave so I think family day is a great idea.

Running very late with my blip tonight, will come back later to comment.
Have a great weekend :)