Checking up on the ducklings . . .

[earthmother45]

I went back to the pond today to check on the ducklings. As soon as I drove into the area I could see a group of dark colored birds down at the end of the pond, and thought they were the other adult Muscovy Ducks I had seen before, but as I got closer I saw they were Black Vultures. I panicked for a minute, but everything looked calm. Usually where there are vultures there is either something dead or maybe something dying or weak. As I got closer I could see the group of little ducklings and then the Mother Muscovy popped her head up. It wasn’t long before there was a commotion….I’m thinking one of the Vultures got too close and Mama flapped her wings and the Vultures moved back a bit. Then she quickly started herding her babies down over the bank and into the tall grasses.



I know there were (at least) 15 ducklings last week when I first saw them and I think I am counting 15 here. That is a big job keeping your babies from predators. That is one fierce and protective mama!






Safety! Here they can hardly be seen . . .


Down at the other end of the pond: Ibis, Black Bellied Whistling Ducks and an Egret . . .


Ibis . . .