The picture is very poor as on my phone and some distance, but it shows a swan and a canada goose.
It was taken today and Black Park County Park, Bucks. I walk here most weekends with my dog. I was there yesterday and this SWan was chasing the goose all around the lake and round and round this and another island. The Swan has a mate, but the goose does not appear to. A lady told me that yesterday the chase had been going on for about twnety mimutes and this morning it was still happening.
The swan would swim after the goose and then putting his neck flat on the water would try to peck at the goose. However when he eased off, the goose did not leave but stayed nearby and so it carried on.
Any ideas as the what is going on?
Sarah
I've learned that I still have a lot to learn...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bramble67/
No, but nice picture anyway.
PS. Take your camera tomorrow!
Cheers, Linda.
See my photos on Flickr
Hello bramble,
When Mute swans raise their wings up over their back, thus, it's known as "busking". This is an aggressive posture. The Canada's probably attracted to a food source, located in the swans territory. The swans won't tolerate this, and will attempt to drive the goose away. Mute Swans will often attack, and drown Canada goslings, in an effort to monopolize resources for their own offspring.
Hope this is of use.
I guess the Swan wanted the Goose to leave the lake, as you have said the Swan has a mate, so it must be on eggs by now. Swans are very territorial and protective.
Susan H said: No, but nice picture anyway. PS. Take your camera tomorrow!
Thanks for your responses. I was surprised that the goose had not given up after such a long time. Daft thing.
Yes. will try to take my camera next time Sparrow. It is a great place for birds. I hear so many, but never close up beause of the dog.
Well I was back at Black Park today, and the chase is still on. The goose just seems to stay with the Swans and then they set off in another trip round the little island. There are other Canada Geese on the lake, but further away. It's just bizarre that this goose won't leave the swans patch.
Hi bramble,
Most interesting,
The question also arises (at least for miserable pedants like me) whether this is the same individual as before, given that other Canadas are present.
MC
Ahhh! didn't think of that. I just assumed it was the same threesome going round and round the island. I suppose it could easily be another goose. The lake is very large and the others are some distance away. I will take a proper camera tomorrow to see what the situation is now.