I'm not sure how a large waterbird from Australia made its way to LaFreniere Park in Metairie, Louisiana, but we have a pair! I first spotted this couple in June, 2017 at the same park. Every time I visit I look for them. Sometimes they're not around or easily located, but today they blessed me with their presence right at the bird sanctuary entrance. 

Sadly, both birds have a beak deformity. I hope someone at the park has noticed and is looking out for their health. I may call around next week and see if anyone knows.

They let the husband and me get very close. I was so close I had to dial back the zoom lens. One was swimming nearby in the manmade canal and the one pictured here groomed herself the whole time we were there. Lots of feathers to deal with and I can relate with my own long-ish locks. Such beautiful and graceful birds.

144/366Black Swan
182mm | f/5.6 | ISO 640 | 1/400 sec