BROTHERLY LOVE - It was an extraordinary act of kindness for the Tundra Swan (left) to drop in to Somenos Marsh to keep its injured Trumpeter cousin company. It shouldn't be long before other Trumpeters begin arriving for the winter. (Oct. 22/04)

DEEP BAY RESIDENT - I've been checking for a month and was happy to finally see the first Long-tailed Duck returning to its winter home on Oct. 23. The Deep Bay Spit is possibly the best location on Vancouver Island for close up views of the Long-tailed Ducks.

ADVANCE PARTY - There were 3 males at the Spit on Oct. 23. The females and juveniles shouldn't be far behind.

WINTER SUNSHINE - The golden sparkle of the Ring-necked Ducks' eyes always add a ray of warmth to our winter days. They are often found in fresh water ponds like Buttertubs Marsh, Dolphin Lake, and Fairwinds & Morningstar Ponds. (Oct. 21/04 - Fairwinds)