We’re back in British Columbia for the summer and we’re all set up at our favourite spot at Thunderbird RV Park in Campbell River. Opportunities for wildlife photography abound here, but I’ve noticed that lately my attention has fallen on one particular individual: Larry the Mute Swan.
Over the past few years we’ve been coming here Larry has become a familiar sight and we love to watch his antics in the estuary. We always look forward to seeing him and this year it seemed like he missed us too. On our second night in the park, Ray opened the door at 10pm and there was Larry right at our steps!!
I’ve been doing a lot of practicing with my new camera (more coming up on that soon) and realized that I have quite a collection of photographs of Larry. He’s a wonderful study in both swan behaviour and photography as I try to get to get different photographs of the same bird in the same location.
Sometimes Larry likes to chase the Canada Geese away. It’s pretty funny to watch because he swims like he’s on a mission.
It takes quite a lot of effort for Larry to fly. There’s all kinds of of flapping and splashing as his wings hit the water before he becomes airborne, but he can do it!
Apparently there used to be two swans in the estuary, but Larry’s wife, Lois, died in a storm a few years ago. Poor Larry has been a bachelor ever since. Maybe that’s why he comes up to the campsites for a little company now and then.
We’re happy to see him and talk to him a little and definitely get some photographs before he goes on his way.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into Larry’s life here on the estuary. I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of making new images of him, so I’m sure you’ll see more in the future.
UDPATE: I’m sorry to report that Larry died yesterday July 8, 2017. His remains were found in the estuary. I don’t know if it was old age or if something happened to him. I loved that bird!! It’s sad now to look out into the estuary and know my old friend wont be swimming around the corner to see me again. But I am glad that he became the focus of my attention earlier this year and that I captured all of these photos of him. RIP Larry, we won’t forget you.
“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” — Dr. Suess
Always enjoy your posts, Anne. So sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. Meeting you in BC when my photo buddy Val and I were up there a few years ago was a real treat!
Hi Carol, great to hear from you! I took that photo of Larry flying in the sunset when you were here that time! I hope our paths cross again some time 🙂
Thank you for sharing that beautiful tribute. A good soul is a good soul!
Renee
You are so right Renee! Thanks for your comments.
I’m so sad to hear of Larry’s passing. You captured his beauty – that’s for sure. Thanks for sharing these images with us.
Thanks MaryAnne. He was a beauty and a great model too!
When I first met Larry, they told me he was a Mute swan. I didn’t know they meant the breed and thought he was actually mute like the children’s book!
haha, you just never know with animals names!
You have a beautiful variety of Larry photos. I showed them to my husband. When he was a kid, his family had a cabin on Devil’s Lake on the central Oregon coast. There was a swan named Peter that he loved to watch and interact with. He remembers how he would land with the wind under his wings and would float slower and slower before putting down his “landing gear”.
Hi Linda, Swans are pretty awesome. I love watching Larry walk because you wouldn’t think he could since he’s so big, but those giant feet keep him waddling along! Thanks for your visit and comments.
Thanks, Anne, for the introduction of Larry. He’s a handsome guy. And the photos are wonderful, too.
Thank you so much Susan. Larry is pretty handsome all right.
Great little story and beautiful images ! Looking forward to hearing about the new camera
Thanks Axelle, I appreciate that.
What a great subject! He’s so cooperative. You’ve really captured his personality and I look forwards to seeing more of Larry and your beautiful photos.
Hey Paula! Larry is quite a shot-off sometimes. I think he poses for me 🙂 Thanks for your comments!
Looks like you’ve definitely been adopted by Lonely Larry. I enjoyed your beautiful shots of him and look forward to seeing more. And to learning about your new camera.
Thanks for your visit and comments Suzy! Larry is going to be an ongoing study for me 🙂
I met Larry earlier this year. Cool bird. Didn’t know he had a name! I wished I was around when you guys show up with your little boat. Great way to go photograph! I would have paid for fuel!
Hi Jan, yes, the boat is awesome! I love going over to Quadra and Cortes and exploring all the little nooks and crannies over there. Glad you had a chance to meet Larry 🙂 He’s pretty special.