Stack 'em, Pack 'em and Rack 'em

The sun dropped quickly this evening in a gorgeous blue sky brushed with clouds that caught a hint of pink on a landscape painted in gold!

I found myself racing against time to get to the lake before sunset in order to witness the influx of wild geese, ducks and swans which always arrive at nightfall. Standing in the hide, the cacophony of noise from the waterbirds was intense. Quacks, peeps, hoots, whoops all carried on the water - all so very excited.

The Bewick's swans though for me steal the show. Formidable aviators and magnificent to look at they swoop in, gracefully landing then meet and greet not only their own party but other Bewick's already there. Wings outstretched rather angel-like, necks elongated, heads bobbing; gossiping and chatting all the while being so friendly. It is fascinating and amazing to watch.

The Bewick's swans are starting to dribble in, in ones and twos, on their migratory path from the Siberian tundra 3,000km away, with the drop in temperatures, clear skies and lull in wind which has been against them of late. Due usually in October the south westerlies have stalled the mass migration. Concern is arising about their drop in numbers due to illegal hunting, power lines, wind farms and land change.

I did like the way the golden light caught their wings here as they flew in - almost breathtaking to watch!