Suffering from man flu... or a raging cold right now, so not up to doing a full annual review.
However I've pulled some of my better bird pics from this years archives. The Highlight of the year for me was the return of Popeye to his family, well worth a look at the short video clip HERE . Enjoy !
New Year always brings changes to the riverside, and new Swans migrate looking for new territory.
Popeye and Penny guard their Island haven closely and immediately see off any intruders.
This was the case yesterday when a lone swan landed close by.
Our resident pair were quick to respond from their peaceful slumbers at the island. The young intruder wasted no time in keeping well clear of our formidable pair !
Peace was restored and a flock of Redshanks stood in shallows amid the low winter Sun.
Christmas means renewal, a celebration of new life and a new season. The longest night is now behind us, and we can all look forward to spring. The River Nairn Swans and Waterfowl Trust would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas, good health, and peaceful new year.
Particular Thanks and good wishes to all our members at home and abroad who have resolutely continued to support our river birds throughout the year, it is greatly appreciated. Your New year Calendar will be sent out soon. If you have not yet viewed the short video of Popeye's joyous return to his family, click on this Happy Homecoming or title on the left of this page. ( I am told it cannot be viewed on an Ipad, probably need an app for that.)
After one of the coldest summers, we now have similar temperatures in mid winter ! Who still doubts climate change ?
If further proof were needed Popeye and Penny showed us today. Penny was flirting with Popeye in the afternoon sunshine, culminating in mating at the darkest time of the year !
Having her lifetime mate back again, Penny is enjoying every minute.
Sequence of shots tells the story, short vid below minus the actual mating - for those with a sensitive disposition!
Brilliant winter sunshine bathed the riverside today, giving a spring like feel with a snow melt spate raising the river level.
Popeye and Penny enjoyed a bath in the moat, and reinforced their lifetime bond - conditions were ideal for a few good photos. Short clip of the bath below.
WE ARE CUSTODIANS OF THE PLANET AND HAVE A DUTY TO CARE FOR IT.
For the past 18 years I've had the privilege of watching and caring for the resident Swans on our local river estuary. I have been charmed and fascinated by their parental skills and beauty in the water, they are Simply Superb Swans.
Annual Membership to the River Nairn Swans and Waterfowl Trust is £20 for a family, can be paid securely through the PayPal Donate button below.
Thank you.
The River Nairn Swans and Waterfowl Trust has been established just over 8 years. It has been brought to my attention that some indiv...
All Donations go to River Nairn Swans and Waterfowl Trust.
EMERGENCY RESCUE CONTACT DETAILS
EMERGENCY BIRD RESCUE, CONTACT The River Nairn Swans and Waterfowl Trust, PHONE or TEXT 0774861 6587. or Scottish SPCA 03000 999 999. Or email jayteescot1@hotmail.com
Ducks often nest in gardens and unusual places in the Town, where the hatched ducklings are unable to get to a watercourse safely. The Trust will catch Mother and ducklings and get them to safety. Please do not throw bread to ducklings as this will only attract predators that will kill them.
