Date: 03/31/2009

Number: 1

On Tuesday March 31, 2009 I was driving on Dry Creek Road in between Manhatten and Belgrade Montana when a flock of 50-75 Trumpeter Swans flew over head. I pulled over and watched as they circled the fields below them, obviously deciding whether or not to land. They circled the field 3 or 4 times. Trumpeting loudly the whole time. One last circle and they flew away in a Northwest direction. Four of the flock opted to stay back and landed on a small pond of water where three of the four preened themselves in the sun and within 1/2 an hour were resting with heads tucked. The fourth fed along the banks for a short time before joining the others. He preened himself and and then he too tucked his head and rested. Interestingly enough, right across the road against a hedgerow, 4 sandhill cranes announced their presence and through binoculars I watched their beautiful mating dance. Scattered here and there were Canadian Geese and Mallard Ducks.It was an amazing experience. I am so blessed.

Belgrade, MT

Latitude: 45.8 Longitude: -111.2

Observed by: Lori
Contact Observer

The observer's e-mail address will not be disclosed.
Contact will be made through a web-based form.