A quintessential early spring sight: swans gleaning fallen grain and the graceful arrival of swans.

Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Before embarking on their long journey to Siberia, the swans rest their wings powerfully on the fertile land of Hokuryu.

They plunge their heads deep into the mud, scoop it up with their beaks along with the mud, and skillfully drain the water as they savor each and every fallen grain, swallowing them with care and affection.

Besides fallen grains, swans are said to be particularly fond of aquatic algae, grass roots, and the roots and stems of wild rice plants.

The blessings nurtured by nature permeate the swans' bodies, becoming the invaluable energy that sustains their long-distance flight of 4,000 km to distant Siberia.

The swans, with their quiet yet powerful presence, seem to speak to us about the grandeur of the natural cycle.

It is a beautiful yet fleeting scene that heralds the arrival of spring in Hokuryu.

◇ noboru & ikuko