These beautiful Mute Swans (mature and immature) might be from a Pennsylvania lake, but this photo was taken at a marshy inlet of Lough Leane, the largest of the three lakes in Killarney (Co. Kerry, Ireland). In fact, Mute Swans, natives of Europe and Asia, were introduced, in the 1800s, to this country for their beauty. And you can see why.
I saw this graceful pair near the shore when visiting Castle Ross, one of hundreds of stone "tower houses" built by the Normans during the middle ages. Often during my visit to Ireland I saw Mute Swans. These birds are highly territorial and so a small lake will support only one mated pair. The parents will raise their chicks, called cygnets, until young adults and then send them away to find their own territories. However, Mute Swans will colonize in larger lakes. Lough Leane, which is a huge lake (five miles long by two miles wide) supported many colonies.
Check back soon for more birds of Ireland!
Till then . . . Keep birds in your heart!
Georgia Anne
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