Swan Song - The Day the Lake Caught Fire
Each year from October through March, Tundra Swans and Trumpeter Swans gather at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge in great numbers. Official peak counts in recent years range from about 1,500 to more than 3,000 birds. In February 2026, I spent three consecutive afternoons with the swans while their plaintive calls filled the air.
Hundreds of Tundra Swans and Trumpeter Swans wintering at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, southwest Washington State
In the early afternoons, the energy level was high and there was a sense of excitement in the air.
Tundra Swans preening, Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge
As the afternoon shadows lengthened, the swans' activity decreased and the scene took on a tranquil feeling. Periods of careful preening were interspersed with leisurely patrols of the lake and quiet respites spent in small groups.
Mid-afternoon preening and patrolling
As sunset approached on the third afternoon, I was packing up my camera to leave when something magical happened. Suddenly, the surface of Ruddy Lake lit up with a golden glow…
Golden hour
…that soon turned fiery orange.
Lake afire
