Bewick's Swans 12/2 Slimbridge

One of our reasons for a visit to Slimbridge was to see the Bewicks before they soon return to Russia.  Early at 8:15 there was still a good number on the 'rushy' sorting themselves out for their day ahead.

Usually the swans at the 'rushy' depart in the morning for the fields but later in the day when we returned there were still quite a few gathered in the water.

It was interesting to watch them call and display to each other no doubt affirming bonds before their long journey home.

Early afternoon and a few more swans had gathered on the 'Tack Piece' some of them in family groups though it looked as though some young were being asked to leave.

So the photos below are in honour of the beautiful Bewicks Swans, may they have a safe journey home and we'll look forward to their return late Autumn.

    Preening time

                

                

                   Mute aggression

                

               

                   Starting to pair and bond

               

               

                   Interesting to watch the displays

                

    Already a pair?

                

               

                   Take off

               

                   Adults seem to be chasing of the young 

               

                   Flexing

   Family squabble 

               

               

   Bathing 

               

               

                   Seem to enjoy splashing around