2002 is the year that a younger cob thinks the king of Greenook should abdicate. I've been expecting an end to the reign of Caesar for some time and I was hoping this last page of the last chapter of his life would be peaceful as befitting our regal, loyal swan. His gold medal glory days are history and now he is having to fight to keep his home and, more importantly, to stay alive.
A new pair, I shall call them Bonnie and Clyde, swooped onto Greenook in early March and proceeded to make life miserable for our geriatric friend. Clyde has one thing in mind and that is to kill Caesar, drive Cleotoo away and claim this kingdom for himself and his pen, Bonnie.
Caesar is no match for this young, aggressive bird so I had to rescue him and Cleotoo after they were driven onto East Loch Alpine Drive in early March.
Murphy's Law is at work here because this winter is the one winter when Bridgeway Lake is not available as an alternative, homeless shelter and so my garage has to do. Caesar and Cleotoo are presently nestled atop two bales of straw, calmly eating lettuce (at $2.00 a head), duck pellets and bread.
I have been waiting for three things to happen. 1. For the ice to melt. 2. Bonnie and Clyde to tire of this lake and move on. 3. Or for Bridgeway to fill. So far only the ice has melted.
I have to make plans because the swans have to get out on some water soon. I am thinking of taking Cleotoo to a friend on Strawberry Lake where she can feed and have a chance to find another mate and I'll hope that she won't fly back looking for Caesar. As for Caesar, he is on his last good leg. Does anyone out there have any good ideas?
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Old Caesar was pushed out of his home by Bonnie and Clyde in February, 2002. He took refuge in our garage. Later, Cleo joined him. | |
