One of my cherished things about residing in Sun City West Arizona is the Swans. They inhabit the seven golf courses that cover the community. They glide peacefully among the ducks and wildlife that flies in for the winter months.
Swans are considered a waterfowl from the Antedate family. Other birds that they would consider close relatives would be ducks and geese.
The gorgeous birds usually mate for life. They do, however, have their mating issues. If they have a nesting failure, a divorce could occur. Sometimes, if a partner is killed by a predator, a companion will grieve and possible take a new spouse.
I previously lived near two ponds and two swans would cross the street occasionally to use the other pond. We would watch them waddle across the street proudly. However, someone hit the female and killed her. The male wailed loudly for hours and did not leave her side. We had animal control come and take her away. Sadly, he remained a bachelor.
When these glorious creatures mate, they have approximately three to eight eggs in their clutch. The incubation process takes 30-45 days, and the nest is constructed by the proud male. The babies are called Cygnets.
The Cygnets stay with the parent approximately six months. At that time, the parents push the Cygnets away. They will join other flocks until they reach the age of four and find their mate.
Our Sun City West Arizona Swans have a specific nutritional need. They thrive on Green leafy vegetables and special seeds. Many visitors try to feed these individuals bread. Categorically this is one of the worst things you could do. Because of the long lovely necks, the wad of dough often gets caught and makes it very difficult to swallow. Please do not feed our Swans!
We have a Wildlife Coordinator, who oversees the care and feeding program. She can facilitate this program with the help of a bevy of volunteers.
In the recent months, we have lost a couple of swans to coyotes and bobcats. It is a sad sight and heart wrenching to our volunteers who find them. If you would like to partake in the program, please contact Jeanne Moore 602/670-1679.
Sun City West Arizona homes for sale 85375, with Swans? That's us!
Comments (5)Subscribe to CommentsComment