For the second year in a row we’ve had a family of wood ducks nest in the huge Tulip Poplar tree in our front yard. We are a good half mile from the nearest creek so it was a surprise to see them last year. They left their nest at about this time last year, with 5 ducklings in tow. Yesterday they made their big move again, with three little ducklings. I will never cease to be amazed at the height those little babies fall from and hop right up in the grass, unscathed & calling for Momma & Daddy.
The parents must feel that our yard is pretty safe, being completely fenced & having such a high tree, but we do have dogs & cats, who primarily live indoors, but to have access to the whole place now and then through out the day. I worry about the babies – but since they seem to be intent on nesting here – I am happy to be extra vigilant at this time of year to help give them the best chance possible. It’s just so flattering that they feel good enough about us that they are willing to nest just a few feet away from our front door!
A wild baby wood duck hatched at Brown Fox Farm & ready to head out into the world with his parents & siblings.
Bucolic Ambition 