Short Distance Migration

Early this morning I was able to watch the short distance migration of six trumpeter swans. Two were on one pond while two other pairs arrived, circled low, then flew off. In very little time, after seeing the other four birds pass by, these two followed. The entire sequence began and ended within a minute or so.

It appeared there was continual communication between the birds since their was no doubt on their intent. I am fairly certain all six birds spent some time together less than a mile from my vantage point… that would be a mile as the trumpeter swans fly.