What an excellent series. I once saw a swan, in conditions of high temperature and zero wind, make three unsuccessful takeoff runs.
Thank you Viv!
All aquatic birds share the so called "surface flight" that is often
used throughout the day… by all, waders, dabblers and divers, to
move quickly in two dimensions. Either to chase /escape another,
or even play. Mother Nature provided them all with very powerful
pectorals.