As I watched this beautiful trumpeter swan, I wondered how she and her companions survived the grueling trip. Each fall they fly more than 3000 miles from their home in the Arctic to spend the winter in the Northwest.
So many birds across the planet migrate, with the driving force being access to food. Along the way they pollinate plants, disperse seeds, keep ecosystems in balance, and recycle nutrients back into the Earth. These creatures contribute mightily to the health and well-being of us all.
And they do it with such grace. Never wondering if it’s theirs to do, but simply following the guidance of the Earth.
I knew that not long from now, this lovely swan would begin her return trip home. I smiled and thanked her for her service.
And I wished her a safe trip…
(Additional photos: wandernature.com/new-photos)