Mom Mallard led her 10 ducklings (I think) from the bank of the dam into the water.
There was a male napping on shore...
He didn't want anything to do with these kids, and chased this one back into the water, then disappeared somewhere else.
The sluice that drains the water must have been full of goodies to eat, but I was worried that a duckling might get swept away. They didn't seem to have a care, and neither did mom Mallard.
I didn't watch for long, because I was actually there to capture a photo of the National Guard plane that was about to fly over. I did get some photos of it, and have posted them already.
Today's quote:
We often think that vulnerability is a kind of weakness, but there’s a kind of vulnerability that is actually strength and presence.
RAM DASS
...they grow up quickly!
ReplyDeleteIf just a few survive I'll be happy. Raccoons are known to be around.
DeleteThe attrition rate must be very high.
ReplyDeleteYes, there will maybe be a few who survive to adulthood.
DeleteWhat a treat to watch those babies!
ReplyDeleteThey are so funny bob bob bobbing around.
DeleteHello,
ReplyDeleteThe ducklings are so cute, love them. They do grow up quickly. Happy Friday, enjoy your weekend!
I was surprised to see so many with that one momma duck. I think they must have nested in someone's yard, where it was harder for raccoons to get at them.
DeleteThose Mallard ducklings are getting quite big, so they have a good chance of making it to adulthood. The male, by the way, seldom takes any part in raising the young. Once they have mated the female goes away and lays the eggs and begins incubation and that is generally the last they see of each other!
ReplyDeleteLove seeing the ducks there. And I always love a Ram Dass quote. Thank you for that.
ReplyDeleteA family outing, very nice to see.
ReplyDelete