Harry Lumsden played a significant role in the revival of Trumpeter Swans in North America, particularly in Ontario. Through his work with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, he helped reintroduce Trumpeter Swans to areas where they had been extirpated. His efforts, which included captive breeding and the release of swans into the wild, have been key to their recovery in the region. Harry Lumsden is widely recognized for his dedication to swan conservation and his involvement in the Trumpeter Swan restoration program.

I often spot Trumpeter Swans at McKenzie Marsh, though not every time. One afternoon, while sitting with Matthew on a bench by the marsh, a majestic swan suddenly glided right over our heads. It was such a breathtaking sight! Just one swan, but it left us in awe. I had never seen a swan in flight before. Here’s a little tip – always remember to look up. You never know what might be soaring above you.

I thought about reaching out to Harry Lumsden to schedule a visit and take some photos of the swans at his pond. I first learned about Mr. Lumsden and his dedication to the Trumpeter Swan restoration program when I read about him receiving the Lieutenant Governor’s Ontario Heritage Award for Lifetime Achievement after over 25 years of work.

Eventually, I did contact Mr. Lumsden in May to arrange a meeting, and he caught me off guard by asking, “Can you come now?” Note to self: never schedule a visit around dinner time – you might get unexpected responses like I did. After a brief pause, he suggested, “Can you come tomorrow?” I agreed, and he casually added, “Feel free to come anytime tomorrow. See you. Bye.” I confirmed, “Yes, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

The next day, we arrived to find a beautiful scene waiting for us. The sky was a clear blue, and the sun shone just right. The green trees behind the pond created a stunning backdrop against the shimmering water. The reflection was flawless, making it a photographer’s dream. I couldn’t have asked for better lighting – every photographer’s best friend!

When we arrived, Mr. Lumsden welcomed us onto the property and gave us a brief tour. After his first visitor left, he returned and showed Matthew and me around. He suggested I move closer to the pond and away from the nets and feeders to get clearer photos of the swans without any obstructions.

Capturing photos of the swans was truly an amazing experience. We spotted one swan nesting and a few others gliding gracefully on the water. Mr. Lumsden mentioned that one swan was missing, likely the same one we had seen in the Atkinson Wetland, just across from McKenzie Marsh. In addition to the swans, we also came across a duck with its adorable ducklings, numerous Canada Geese, Blue Jays, and majestic Great Blue Herons soaring overhead.

We were also invited to explore the trails around the pond on Mr. Lumsden’s land, which felt like a wildlife park. I had initially thought it would be a quick in-and-out visit, but we ended up spending a good forty-five minutes there.

Before visiting Harry Lumsden’s property, I did some research on his work, and it’s truly impressive what he’s accomplished. He even mentioned during our visit that he dug all three ponds himself and transformed them into a beautiful swan habitat in Aurora.

I also came across references to a movie called Winged Migration in some reports and newsletters. It’s a documentary about the migratory patterns of birds, filmed over three years on all seven continents. I’ll have to check with our local library in Aurora to see if they have a copy available—it sounds like a fantastic film for bird watching enthusiasts like me!

That day wasn’t just about birds – there were also beehives! It was my first time seeing a beehive up close and watching honeybees in action.

I had an incredible adventure seeing a larger population of Trumpeter swans in one place, meeting Harry Lumsden, and exploring his backyard ponds and private trail. I’m already thinking about going back for Doors Open Aurora 2012, and maybe this time I’ll be able to snap some photos of the cygnets.

COMMENTS

Peter Jackson said: June 6, 2012 at 07:19

“I enjoyed your last post and far be it for me to rain on your parade but everything you mention, except the bees of course, are common sights on St Andrew’s Valley Golf Course. The course has a number of large ponds most of which are inter-connected with the East Holland River which meanders throughout the entire course. It is common to see swans, geese, duck, mink, coyote, rabbits, muskrat and all sorts of smaller beasts….plus larger. We have deer seen regularly and even a Horned Owl that took up residence in the blue spruce by the 10th tee which received some local press recently. Raccoons and skunk, of course, are as common as anywhere else. The golf course provides the three elements for wildlife survival…..water, cover and feed. Unfortunately, perhaps the wildlife gets too used to the human presence on the course but this is overcome by by the course’s wildlife policy…….protect it!”