Anna and I just fed the brood, which were resting, huddled in a cold, sodden mass on the bank, sadly unable to rest on their inundated duck island. Anna told me that when they saw me approaching, without my making a sound, they perked up. She suspected that they know me from my appearance! Anyway, here’s the poor wet group on the bank. Yes, there are still eight.
Eight—count them—eight ducklings. Mom is always between them and danger.
Foraging in the lily pads, with mom watching closely. They seem to actually be finding food there:
I don’t know what this duckling found, but he tried to nom it, and another came by and tried to steal it. Any ideas? But look how big they’ve grown! The yellow down on their head has disappeared.
Food fight!
My beloved Honey, speculum in full glory:
Spot the mallard!
I see it! I see it!
(I never get these things.)
That pic really appeals to me for some reason. I love the way she’s sticking her head up looking out for Jerry and Anna!
I think I’d rate that one as easy.
I suppose that’s more polite than “they know you by your smell.” 🙂
However, birds are not famous for acute olfaction.
Honey is a real beaut!
The highlight of my afternoon.
The highlight of my morning cup of coffee here in the Antipodes.
+ 1. Honey and her brood are a big part of my life, which is largely lived vicariously!
It looks like the face of Jesus. But why would Jesus be in a pond?
Oops I just realized my comment could get this blog banned from America.
I wish there was the option to Like a post.
Honey really is an exceptionally fine looking Mallard.
Love that last photo!