THE GOOSE AND THE SWAN STORY
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In the midlands village of Shannonbridge there is a nature story that is competing with a phenonem that we know as the Eyjafjallajokull (Icelands Volcano)

This story began to unfold in the spring of 2009 when a white domestic goose from upsteam Clonburn was observed by locals swimming with a family of seven swans. This family consisted of Mam, Dad and their five signets.
In time the locals observed that one signet was unable to fly because of a damaged wing.
Villager, Noel Rocke reported this to the RSPCA authorities in Ballinalsoe.
The next day efforts to capture the winged swan were futile. The sensitive and sensible representative with Beattle type wisdom declared 'Let it be'noting 'if the vet cannot fix the wing the swan will be put down'. Where as it appears to be enjoying life here on the Shannon in Shannonbridge.

For swans, as in human families change is a part of life. For this sexen family, there was ongoing migration and now the only two left are the winged swan and the white goose. They are partners. They now patrol the waters immediatley north and south of the magnificient 16 arch bridge each day.

They greet boaters who dock at the Marinas and appreciate being included when food is shared.
The goose partakes only when the winged partner has been satisfied and she then enjoys a portion.

Each day the goose dictates the movements of the pair. She swins some 25feet ahead of the swan who is not allowed out of sight. When seperation occurs the goose becomes tramatized like a parent seperated from it's child in the supermarket.

Recently back for a visit, I am glad to find the goose and swan story is big news in the village.