Swan Photos
In Western Australia many Black Swans breed each year but some nest in built up areas.
Before laying their eggs they build a massive mound of plant matter - usually surrounded by water.
After hatching the babies often gather strength for at least 24 hours before leaving the nest.

For the first few days the babies usually spend each night back on the nest under a parent.

The parent birds are fiercely protective of their young but the cygnets face predators and other dangers.

I am grateful for the information and observations provided by Newton, Lyn, Alan, Lynda and others.
Photos closest to top of page most recent (August 2009)
Copyright: Keith Lightbody

Your feedback is welcome - my email address is below - please feel free to comment.
my quest for sites
(I am interested in locating other good sites for nature photography)


Unfortunately 5 of the 6 babies shown above near Perth (they hatched from 24 Aug 2008 on) were eaten
but the 2009 brood (hatched from 8 Feb 2009) was more succesful and resulted in 5 young adults.

FEEDBACK: Please email me - your comments are welcome and much appreciated!
Site Credits: Newton (who works nearby) helps me greatly with regular news of these swans.

Photos taken 2009 with 500D, 2008 with 450D plus 17-85 IS USM (f/4-5.6),
100 Macro USM (f/2.8) and 100-400 L IS USM (f/4.5-5.6)

My email:
cumuluskeith at gmail.com