Kip’s Comments - January 20, 2026

Eyes on the Ice

A nature watching friend of me reached out today about this lone trumpeter swan sitting on the ice on the Cedar River in Waverly. That the bird is alone and on the ice may or may not mean anything. Swans are unpredictable that way. Yes, often they are in their family units or more, but maybe this bird is a loner.

Trumpeter Swan on Ice - Image 1058948

As I watched it the swan lifted its head to look around and then went back to a resting posture. Only time will tell if the bird is healthy.

For the record, if the bird is in trouble, help may not be available. The area where it is located was open water last week. A bigger challenge would be if the swan is ill. With avian influenza in the Midwest, suspect birds are not captured and taken to rehabbers to prevent killing all birds at the facility.

Let’s hope this was just a lazy day for this solo swan and tomorrow it will be gone.

I was treated to several flocks of swans in flight near Shell Rock. This was one group.

Trumpeter Swans in Flight - Image 1058991

Out on my gravel travel I found a male American kestrel that allowed some photos to be made before he took flight.

Male American Kestrel on Power Line - Image 1058915

For a completely different image… I was driving near Saints Lake when I saw a person skating on the smooth ice. I have to admit that I was jealous. I used to enjoy ice skating - figure skates and hockey skates (and even roller skating and in-line skates). I have spent hours on blades either casually skating or chasing a puck around with a stick in my hand. After three severe falls and multiple surgeries to repair joints, my skating days are over. In fact, I would be hesitant to even slide in my boots for fear of falling and messing up a shoulder or knocking my head. Like it or not, I have no options but to watch. If I can I may photograph the action too.

Ice Skater on Ice - Image 1058902