These colourful and vibrant birds with their distinctive marking are the descendants of ornamental birds brought over from Africa to display in stately homes across the UK sometime in the 17th century. Many escaped and have made homes in rivers, lakes and ponds, mostly in the South of England where they proliferate. In Ancient Egypt they were considered sacred and appear in much of their artwork.
Gunnersbury pond has been privileged to house a breeding pair for a number of years now. Though with varying success, this year all 9 gosling have almost made it to adulthood, much to the delight of the local neighbourhood. We will soon be waving them off to find their own mates and new nesting grounds.
Collaboration between Laurent Widloecher (Photographer) and Ana Soto (Nature enthusiast).
- Aperture: ƒ/1.5
- Camera: iPhone 13 Pro Max
- Flash fired: no
- Focal length: 5.7mm
- ISO: 50
- Shutter speed: 1/5319s
Location: Gunnersbury Park
Date Taken: 2023-06-03
Professional Photographer? yes