What Are They Eating

It is always a good day when we find large flocks of Trumpeter Swans and Snow Geese on Fir Island.

 Two weeks ago we came upon this gigantic flock of Swans - usually they are spread out over the fields, while the Snow Geese tend to swarm in tighter groups.

 There were hundreds, maybe thousands of the Trumpeter Swans across a large field, in much tighter groups than usual.

 They spread out - and mingled with large flocks of the Snow Geese.  All intent on finding something to eat.

 And look what they found.

 The farmer had dumped large mounds of red and yellow potatoes in piles all along the field.

 The Swans were especially interested in the potatoes. 

 The farmer made big mounds and long piles of potatoes.  The farmers are having trouble selling their potatoes in other countries this year, and many crops are going to waste.

 We stayed and watched for well over 45 minutes - and only one other car drove by, and they didn't stop to watch.  No one else seemed to know that all those birds were there, eating potatoes.

 The Trumpeter Swans and Snow Geese are certainly having a feast.

 Here come more birds, flying in. 

 They want some of the plentiful potatoes.