The swans are eagerly looked out for in autumn, and indeed we had one that stayed on the loch at the back of our house all summer last year. Solitary either by accident or design, she spent the summer accompanied only by mallards and tufted ducks delighting in the disturbance of her feeding. By the time October came around, she was agitated and was often to be seen watching the sky. I was lucky enough to see her reunion with her family: She greeted them enthusiastically, with soft whoops of welcome coming from both parties, and has remained a part of the group all winter long.
Now, they leave in groups of 10, 20, and this morning, 50. The sound of the air moving underneath so many huge, strong wings leaves an impression like no other, and of course there's the farewell whoops, the soft longing that comes from saying goodbye to a favourite, and kind-heartedness of wishing them a swift and easy journey. These graceful swans are one of the our winter highlights, complementing the lochs that are their homes. Their purity of colour, elegance of shape and loyalty to their families are a joy to us all. Now, their departure paves the way for our summer species. New migrants that are even now getting ever closer and with them, and with the whooper swan's departure, comes the reminder of brighter days ahead.
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