I have seen this behavior at Lake Elkhorn in Columbia, although it 
didn't last for 10 minutes. Spreading the wings like that seems to 
be a threat behavior for swans. Perhaps the swan is trying to make 
itself look bigger, as so many animals do when threatened?


June Tveekrem
Columbia, Howard Co, MD
tweekiebird AT toadmail DOT com

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Hello all.

As an employee of Turf Valley resort in Ellicott City, I have 
noticed two Mute Swans occupying the small lake on the golf course. 
Recently, a lone Canadian Goose has been hanging out with them. He 
has been with the pair for about two weeks now and follows them 
around, always staying about 20 feet behind. The other day, one of 
the Swans chased after the goose in a slow liesurly manner while 
spreading its wings. The goose never left the area. This went on for 
about 10 minutes. Has anyone else observed this type of behavior?

W. Smith