Well, I went back to the pond this morning a bit more chipper, as I thought all the ducklings had been rescued last night—I netted six. But lo and behold, I got to the pond and saw a female in the channel. I fed her, and only then did I notice that she wasn’t alone:
She somehow found one duckling. Either we missed one last night or one came to the pond and Mom picked up a late arrival. At any rate, she has a singleton.
Honey is chasing this new hen (who clearly isn’t Dorothy), though she’s not attacking her. But it’s worrisome. I have called Chicago Bird Collision Monitors and am awaiting a response. I don’t want to go into the pond again, but of course if I have to, I have to. A life is a life. But I’ll surely not get much done today.
Isn’t it possible that all these ducks are Homey’s offspring from previous years? They know where all the yummy food is!
Very cute photos – I hope mother and duckling stay safe.
There is always something new at Botany Pond, the pleasures and the disappointments. Life in microcosm, though I’m sure it doesn’t feel that small. Keep going prof.
I’ve been having trouble commenting on WEIT this morning. This is just a test.
Jeez, boss, wouldn’t be easier just to get a job working the chocolate factory conveyor belt with Lucy and Ethel?
Anyway, anyhow you look at it, it’s a mitzvah.
What an extraordinary and (hopefully) happy twist!
I wonder if Honey has learnt that this duck also has ‘protection’.
This duck business is getting pretty costly. Don’t worry though, you are not alone. I had a front tooth just come out. Not knocked out, it just came out. I don’t even want to talk about how much this is costing.
Is it not possible that the squabbling between the hens is simply to establish a pecking order and that once it is done all will settle down?
Maybe time to invest in hip waders such as fly fishermen have.
My thought exactly.
Awww, these photos are so cute. The mumma duck and the baby ducks. I wish everyone stay safe and happily healthy.
Awww, these photos are so cute. The mumma duck and the baby ducks. I wish everyone stay protected and happily blooming.
Too bad they can’t get along in peace.
Maybe the new hen will be able to protect her single offspring from Honey’s attacks? That should be easier than trying to protect six or seven.
“A life is a life.”
Perfect.
Jerry, invest in a pair of waders. Even if you don’t need them but once or twice a season, they will make your life a lot better, and you can focus on the ducks instead of how uncomfortable you care. Leave them in your office so you can jump in them ASAP when needed.
L
Actually, physical plant has waders and I bet they’d lend them to me. Thanks for the ideas.
Botany Pond current events: a microcosm of U.S. events, but without looting, fires and police response. And, a much more sane and humane “president” who cares for all life.
Good example, prof.