Swan Pair

I had been wanting to go see the waterfowl, but busy schedules have kept me from being able to. As it was a fairly warm evening and the day was shaping up to provide a beautiful sunset, I asked husband if we could go. I was excited as we pulled in and stepped out to the shoreline. There were a handful of swans very nearby in the water as well as dozens of geese and some gulls , so I was imaging some great photo opportunities.

I took 5 pictures when our enjoyment was abruptly cut short as we stood and watched, in horror, as a young man cast his fishing line into the water near dozens of water fowl. One of the swans got tangled in his line. Husband asked if we had scissors in the car but I was too dumbstruck to speak. I just stood and stared as the poor bird struggled and the guy began reeling in his line. He saw me watching and eventually just let the line run out giving it a tug now and again. Finally the poor, traumatized, swan got loose. I figured the kid would pack up and leave, but after inspecting and rebaiting his hook he cast out again among the birds. We left as I couldn't bear to watch any more birds become victim to his hook and line. I stopped at a local bait shop and got the number for the DEC. Hopefully they sent someone to talk some sense into the kid.

This is not the greatest shot, but I like the way the one swan's wings are open. The contrast between the darkening water and the white of the birds adds something to the picture as well.