When I first went down early this morning, Boy was up on the shore which surprised me a bit because he's usually in the water these days. A few seconds later, the explanation became clear.... good old Precious had finally decided to cross the lagoon to check out life on the other side, and had clearly "encouraged" Boy to leave the water. He then homed in on Tristan and Isolde who were enjoying themselves preening. They scrambled onto land, and went up on their hill - didn't seem unduly upset - settled down to preen and have a wee siesta. I didn't interfere in any way, other than remaining by the shore in case he decided to follow them. He didn't. They're going to have to get used to him, and it's worked out well that he's the last swan to encounter them since they've had a chance to get used to the milder chasing by Dad Swan or Boy.

With all his fun taken away, Precious decided to head back to his side and the moment he did, Boy got in the water; as I watched I could hardly believe my eyes - we're all used to Boy lying around most of the time, and would never have expected to see him rise up, madly flapping his wings as he took off across the entire lagoon, skimming the water. If he could fly, he would have achieved lift-off. FLAP, FLAP, FLAP!!! On reaching the other side he shook himself, fluffed up and then carried on as if nothing unusual had happened, looking quite content. Ziggy must have given him 'pep pills' while she had him, because he's got 'way more life' in him than before.

Marlika's still sitting still on the nest - she's not showing any signs of listening to the eggs or much movement at all so it's hard to know what's going on. The new reeds are starting to grow - dark green spears coming up everywhere, so it's getting harder to see her.

Brother was also on shore in deference to Precious, Mum and Dad Swan doing a bit of chasing of their own - It's always a relief to see them all there and OK.