20th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
White Ballet

I was walking in the forest close to a lake looking for birds, when I saw a white stain between the branches. Curious, I slowly got closer, and that's when I saw this beautiful mute swan, standing still on the water. I didn't get any closer because I wanted not to disturb the animal. The swan stayed in the same position for a few minutes, and suddenly showed his wingspan, sending water in the air, showing his white feathers in the sunlight. It was like a dance, a performance just for me. He then slowly left and I stood still for a bit. Even though it was just a few seconds, I felt like I just witnessed a beautiful ballet.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 11.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2022
Photo Location: Rambouillet, France
Camera: Canon EOS 60D
Copyright: © Léo Isoard