Featured Image - Spring 2001

Whooper and Mute Swans 

I have always admired swans for their graceful movement and elegant appearance. Nothing particularly spectacular about this image in and of itself, but it does depict two species, the Mute and Whooper, together in the same frame.  The swans are captive and live on a cemetery pond in Tulsa County.

What is remarkable about them is the story behind the swans. They were donated by a local Tulsa resident who can be seen often at the pond feeding the swans and other waterfowl there. The swans cost several thousand dollars each. You might think the donor is some ultra-wealthy bird loving philanthropist, but that is not the case.  He is an ordinary far from wealthy working class, but caring citizen. He obtained bank loans in order to finance the birds. 

I find it remarkable that an individual would go to such lengths financially so that he and others can enjoy the swans.  I have not personally met the donor, nor do I know his name.  But if I ever see him out at the pond during one of my visits, I  will express my gratitude for his generosity to nature and mankind. 

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