I've still not quite got the tone right - but getting there slowly...
The grey brown gander's back returns
with his four strong harem.
though his route is random
they follow obediently
approach the stream
tentatively.
trying They try out the river bank
with webbed foot and beak and webbed foot
before slithering in
gracelessly.
Each regains its dignity
Nose about in weed and reed
Unhurriedly.
They each regain their dignity and nose (or beak) about
parting weed and reed
unhurriedly.
And then decide the grass is greener.
With a flap of wings, a flick of tail
They flounder onto land
Shuffle wing and tail feathers
Back into shape
Like priests readjusting vestments
Before rejoining the flock
Later, when they decide the grass is greener
They need a flap of wings, a flick of tail
For extra lift
Then they shuffle feathers, wings, tail
Back into shape
Like a priest readjusting vestments
Before rejoining the flock