Meet Heckscher’s Newest Swan Family

Photos by Diane Scarabino
“Mr. and Mrs. Swan” observe their newborn cygnets.

One of five cygnets born to Heckscher Park’s “Mr. and Mrs Swan.”

Heckscher Park’s “Mrs. Swan” has given birth to five little cygnets.

Melville Diane Scarabino has been keeping tabs on Mr. and Mrs. Swan for Long Islander

News ever since they began building their nest in April.

“As I drove to and from work each day I fortunately passed Heckscher Park,” she said. “Since watching Mr. and Mrs. Swan build their nest I have pulled over every day trying to capture the big moment. For the past six weeks, through heat and rain, still Mrs. Swan sat.

“As I passed Wednesday, instantly I saw the nest was empty and couldn't park my car fast enough. Armed with my camera, I ran looking for them. Seeing the parents working together to protect their young and the young following their parents is a treat by nature we are so lucky to behold.”