58. Mallard

The first time that a Mallard stopped at the pond that we built we were so excited. Until then there had been fly overs -but no reason for them to stop. It didn't take them long to habituate to us and dogs and activity all around. The rain of seed from the bird feeders may have helped. There have been some major scuffles as various males or females have vied for pond rights and mating rights.

There were at least three years where we found duck eggs that had been eaten by the ravens. The smashed eggs were always in the same spot on the meadow. Two years ago, however, I was away at a regatta when I received a short video clip of a parade of wee yellow fluff balls swimming in the water! They didn't stay long, but it was wonderful to know that they had found a secure place away from the marauding ravens. 

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