What's Happening Here

Every day during the past 2 weeks, this blue heron has been showing up along the shoreline.  Previously it had shown up periodically to stalk its next meal, but never on a daily basis.

In addition, each day it has kept getting nearer to the swans' nesting area.

When I captured this moment, I first thought that the heron was paying a visit to Mom to see how she was doing.  That impression came from the fact that I saw no reaction from either swan (Dad was in the middle of the lake).

My friend and photo guru, who I also refer to as the "Birdmeister" made it clear that this was not a friendly visit.  In fact, the blue heron was checking to see of any of the eggs had hatched so it could try and steal one of the babies - - a cygnet -- for its next meal.  

My best guess is that when the cygnets are born, the reception for the blue heron will not be welcoming!