Icelandic Behavior: Whooper Necking

It began with a flight of six swans coming in for a landing on Tjörnin, a small lake in the center of Reykjavík. Not unlike a 747, swans need a long runway, but are far more graceful if not as quiet. The six immediately became three pairs, with a grace and elegance that brought to mind various folk tales. Their wings were spread across the water, their necks next to each other. The display was very languid in the beginning. The one below reminded me of a ballerina (or ice skater, if you wish) as a swan as a ballerina (or ice skater). I never noticed such behavior in mute swans, so perhaps the northern Whoopers are the inspiration of dancers as well as legend. And it ended when someone was caught eyeing the wrong partner: much noise, much chasing, much commotion. However, differences were soon patched up in favor of a good meal, as it seems to be an Icelandic custom that on Sunday mornings (in particular) families bring the birds a good breakfast.   Iceland cats   |   mountain sheep Look Out!