Back From Extinction ... and in my back yard! Trumpeter Swans

When I was a young boy, Trumpeter Swans almost became extinct. In the 60's and 70's if I remember correctly, there were only 35 breeding pairs in North America. Even today, they are one of the rarest birds in North America.

Given my love of the outdoors and birds, you can imagine my glee when driving home from work I noticed a flock of "late migrants". Our lake had been mostly iced over, but some warm weather this week opened everything up. The swans took advantage of the open water to rest up on their way south.

After arriving home, I quickly grabbed my camera and headed out for a photo shoot. Luck was on my side; it was even the golden hour of the day for photography. Although my hands became really cold during the 25 minutes I stocked this one flock, the pain was well worth while. I consider myself lucky to have seen this sight in my lifetime. I even managed to photograph another flock in air as they were about to land. However, when they saw me, not being impressed they flew on!

I hope you enjoy these photos. Click upon any photo to view at full size and resolution. I've not put any watermarks or copyright on the photos, but if you do share the pictures, please grant me credit, NorthStarNerd.Org. Thanks!

Photo 1