The Newest Residents

"In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous." 

-Aristotle

About three weeks ago, we pulled into our driveway, and I immediately noticed we had a visitor.

At first, I thought he was just searching for a dry spot after the latest April snowstorm. Being a bird lover, I was thrilled that he chose our doorstep.

But after further observation, it turns out we had two visitors. The female was hiding in the front hedge and came out to join her mate.

I did not think much about it then, because mallards, wood ducks, and sometimes even loons are spotted in the backyard and around the neighborhood. However, it was a little peculiar since they have never come close to the house. Surely it was too early for them to be looking for a nesting spot?

Turns out I was wrong. This past Sunday (Easter), I noticed they were back to stay. And this time, the female was resting on a well-fashioned and insulated nest.

The female does not move, except for an occasional flight to get something to eat, but she is not gone long. She sits as still as can be, watching and waiting.

I am watching and waiting as well. I do wonder how many eggs there are and how long it will be before there are little ducklings. My guidebook says 24-30 days. Pretty sure I check on her once an hour when I am home. Just like Joey and Chandler from FRIENDS, she is my pet duck. And anyone who comes over gets to hear about our new resident(s) and see her and the nest in person.

These are the times that I wish we had little ones. Nothing like having a classroom right off the front porch! But alas, thankfully my husband acts as a student this time and puts up with my wonder and awe over this animal. Although he claims that dad is a dead-beat, I beg to differ. He is just waiting patiently for his mate and the young ones to join him, swimming circles in the backyard. And he never strays too far. He is always visible from our window.

If you have kids or want to see our newest resident and the nest, please come and visit!