Before arriving at Oxelösund, we made a long trip down the eastern coast of Sweden, passing Stockholm. We enjoyed the peace of the countryside and the change in weather conditions.
Hooper swans follow the melting snow north in search of food as the previously ploughed fields clear of the winter snow. The time will soon be right for them to return to their breeding grounds in Iceland.
This is a good sign for us; we have passed into better weather.
North of Stockholm, keeping close to the coast, we passed through small villages and enjoyed the spring sunshine, although it was still cold!
We broke our journey to spend a couple of days at the small and tranquil natural harbour of Kallerö. We had to leave the macadam road and drive on gravel tracks for some kilometres to arrive there.
We drove deeper into the forest; the snow lingers in the shadow of trees. Common Cranes, now in nesting pairs, feed on the forest fringe.
A glimpse over the trees of White-tailed Eagles.
This was our first sighting of them, so we stopped to try to photograph them, but the weather and light were against us.
A third bird flies over the track; we will have seen eight magnificent birds by early evening.
In the little grass harbour of Kallerö, in the late afternoon, sleet and rain showers move north.
Darkness had fallen, and it was freezing cold, the stars the only lights to be seen; we stood outside in total silence, looking for the elusive Aurora Borealis.
The morning brought more showers, and the water calmed down.
We watched Geese glide across the still water in silence and calm.
These geese are a first for us as they are hybrids: greylag x Canada Goose and anser anser/Branta canadensis.
The only sound coming from the passing birds and their calls.
Far out across the water, we watched a White-tailed Eagle poach food from the gulls.
As we continued our journey, we retraced our steps through the forest and saw our first Rough-legged Buzzard making a hasty exit from our camera.
Easter is nearly upon us as we arrive at our destination, the port at Oxelösund, Sverige. Here, cargo ships, sailing yachts, and fishing boats are all encompassed in a beautiful natural area.
We will spend the Easter holiday here walking in the stunning countryside and watching Eider Ducks migrate back to their breeding grounds. Here in the harbour at Oxelösund, we counted nearly six hundred feeding and resting Eiders late in the evening.
To the left is the industrial port, and to our right, the Moon is reflected on the sea. This will be our destination for walking tomorrow.
We stroll through the natural park and follow the coast. The water is crystal clear, and the weather is quite warm—actually balmy. Aromas of sea and pine fill the air.
Sitting high on the Femöre battery, we sea-watch into the welcome sun. The obsolete guns are at peace, having been used as a deterrent against a Soviet invasion. Today, we only observe groups of Eider ducks heading into the harbour as they migrate north.
Later, we watch Air Force jets fly low across the sea and hear the news that a modern-day incursion into Swedish air space had occurred —history repeating itself!
All at sea, these are the fellows we have come to see. Male Eider ducks with their striking appearance.
A single female was escorted by the courting males.
We have a winter visitor in France, and it is always a joy to see. This is the first time we have observed this behaviour with Fieldfares; this male is just starting his courtship display.
The end of a fabulous day walking in Oxelösund.
Our journey continues, taking us further south to the Island of Öland.
To be continued.
Happy Days!
