SIGNS OF SPRING

TUNDRA SWANS

One of the surest signs of spring is the return of the Tundra Swans. The Swans are large white migratory waterfowl that spend their summers in the arctic tundra that stretches from northwestern Alaska to northeastern Canada. And these birds are big! The Swans measure 47 - 58 inches long, have a wing span of approximately 66 inches and can weigh anywhere between 10 and 20 pounds. They form lasting pairs and mate for life. Their warbling sounds are loud & sound similar to dogs barking in the distance. Tundra Swans migrate in steps, stopping along their migration route to rest and eat. They typically use wetland habitats, but rely on open water for food and safety, so they will select larger lakes that are slower to freeze, such as the Lower Great Lakes.

Luckily a group of approximately thirty swans lands in Findley Lake for a few days each spring and autumn. The wetland habitat is the perfect feeding venue and the nearby fields provide the added bonus of unharvested grains, tubers, and winter wheat. If food is scarce in the wetland habitats the Swans will make short trips to the fields to find food. The arrival of the Tundra Swans makes us think about the magic of the changing seasons – all part of the “circle of life”.

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

This age-old rhyme may be true somewhere but not here in SW New York State! Our spring typically unfolds like this.

1.  The snow melts away from our streets and yards; the huge mounds of plowed snow are still a few feet high. We walk the yard in every direction, no longer restricted to the single path to the front door.

2.  As we peruse our gardens we see the start of young spring growth; tiny snowdrops, crocuses & pansies stretch through the recently frozen soil to excite us about what’s to come. We also take note of how much work the gardens need after the long winter’s sleep.

3. Then we have the typical St. Patrick’s Day snowstorm, or sometimes the early April snowstorm. The weather reminds that Winter isn’t totally over and Spring is not to be taken for granted, at least not yet.

Come celebrate Spring in Findley Lake! The ice on the lake is melting, soon the brave fisherman will start trolling the shallow waters. Golf at Peek ‘n Peak is just around the corner! And the shops will extend their seasonal hours, filled with new gifts, wearables & collectibles. The Blue Heron Inn is open all week long for overnight guests and serves breakfast, lunch & dinner on the weekends.

And don’t forget about: Blue Heron Inn’s “First Sundays” when local Irish players sit in & jam from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. Next gig: Sunday, April 5, 2009

Cheers to all that’s unfolding!