Tundra Swans in flight – Nikon D200, handheld, f6.3, 1/1600, ISO 320, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 200-400mm VR with 1.4x TC at 400mm, natural light
Tundra Swans (Cygnus columbianus) by the thousands overwinter in the Great Salt Lake area, it is not uncommon to see huge flocks of them at Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area in northern Utah.
Tundra Swans used to be known as “Whistling Swans” because of the sound their wings make in flight and when hundreds or thousands of them fly over it is a delight to hear.
I photographed these Tundra Swans in flight in February of 2011 on a bright, chilly morning as they flew over the marshes at Farmington Bay. Their beautiful white plumage against the sky is always a joy, especially when there are wispy, white clouds.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Tundra Swan photos plus facts and information about this species.
You have certainly capture the swans in flight..they are just lovely..
Thanks Syl, I think swans are lovely too.
What a wonderful capture Mia! You are so fortunate to be able to see these beauties regularly.
Thank you Susan, I do look forward to fall/winter because of the swans.
Something about seeing these migrating swans….the soul wants to take wing…..
Thank you Merrill, swans are so beautiful, especially in flight.
There is that V shaped flight pattern they have. I read they do this to conserve their energy. Each bird flies slightly above the bird in front of him, resulting in a reduction of wind resistance. Also they do it to communicate, to keep track of every bird in the group. Humans have copied this V pattern in aviation with fighter planes, for a whole different reason. What a pity! Nice colors and contrast!
maria, I love their V-shaped flight pattern and it is fascinating how they use it to conserve energy. Thanks for your comment.
The black on their bodies are like dots in the sky. Carol
Carol, thank you for commenting!
Beautiful capture, Mia!
Thank you Julie.