The Swans

Every month here at ZM Retreats is like opening a new chapter of your favorite book. The same characters reappear, but there's always a new dimension to them. Traditionally, at the start of spring, our resident Swan Couple prepares a nest at the end of our 100-meter-long gangway. "Gangway" may not be the correct word, as it's more of an art installation. You can read more about it here: The Road to Self-Discovery.

This year, they kept the tradition and made their nest just next to the platform. Nest preparation takes a few weeks, followed by over a month of sitting on the eggs. You might think they would be very defensive during this time, but it seems that, like most creatures, they can sense when there is danger and when there is not. There is no aggression or sign of distress when visitors come to admire their dedication.

Sometime in May, the eggs hatch! This year, there are eight little cygnets, and seeing them is the best medicine.