The Nature Of Nairn

The past few days has been glorious weather - long overdue. 

This gave me the opportunity for some close up shots and video of some of the river wildlife.

 The cygnets are almost 4 weeks old and cute as ever. 

The duck of the year had a cross word with Sue our swan when she tried to intimidate her ducklings.

 The goosander made it plain to the heron that her chicks were not on the menu either! 

My little Robin friend has been feeding youngsters all day, back and forth for crushed peanut pieces. 

With the setting sun on the river , it was hard to tear myself away from the nature of Nairn. 

Taking advantage of my privileged position with Slim and Sue, Short video below.  

Goosander Chicks

Our resident Goosander has turned up with 10 chicks, much to the delight of locals and visitors, even Slim and Sue had a good look as well. 

The mother Goosander was observing closely , as her chicks kept diving and fishing. 

When the swans got too close the chicks jumped on mums back and headed away.  2 short videos below.

Fishin & Surfin

Goosander and chicks are enjoying summer life on the river. 

The abundance of seasonal incomer fish, like tiddler flounders, and other small species, can be caught easily by the chicks. 

Goosanders belong to the sawbill family, with serrated edges to their pointed bill giving a firm grip on fish. 

Surfing on Mums back and fishing are the order of the day !..Ain't nature wonderful !

One Month On

Cygnets are a month old and already bigger than Mallard ducks! 

Now eating the same feed as the parents ensures rapid growth.

Noticed also on the tidal reaches, a Cormorant drying it's wings, and a Goosander with 2 chicks. 

Ready for release tomorrow, the female Duck injured by the drakes. Has made a full recovery after two weeks treatment - and hopefully avoid the villains now.

Goosander Chicks

Yesterday evening I thought I saw a new duckling brood, until I realised it was in fact a Goosander with 8 chicks.

 She was going so fast downstream most of my shots were blurred.