Island Swan Hatched.

[Simon Brown]

The Swan on the Island hatched 6 cygnets last Wednesday, the first shot is on the island the rest are under my my jetty she had two on her back under her wings as well as the one on top (sorry catscratch yours are lovely too) you can just see them as she is leaving. And a Goldeneye visiting...
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[Jandy]

Hi, Simon - love your pics, specially those of the cygnet taking a ride. As cute as you can get!

Your last pic is great as well, but I have to say, I think this is actually a Hooded Merganser, originating in N America (http://ibc.lynxeds.com/photo/hooded-merganser-mergus-cucullatus/male-displaying-raised-crest) rather than the Goldeneye (http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/g/goldeneye/index.aspx). I did actually see a Hooded Merganser not that long ago at the Barnes Wetland Centre, so if yours is in the wild it probably an escapee, or descended from them.

[Simon Brown]

I did think that the bill was a bit thin and i meant to put a question mark after as i could not find a perfect match in my books. Thanks again...:rolleyes:

[Sparkies]

Lovely, lovely piccies..... especially the ones where the babies are on the mother's back.. How can they ever have called these ugly ducklings!! I know she only has 4 left now, I just hope they all survive OK now......
Jenny