Psilos Bird Journal
Wednesday April 16th 2008
     
New life (page 2)
 
Lots of very young Mallard ducklings around but try as I may I couldnt get them in the conditions I wanted. The light was never right, the water too dull and too dirty. I know I know excuses excuses...
     
Saw a femlae Mallard being mated with five males who were trying to drown her. She had a dozen ducklings and they were left defenceless whilst she tried to get away from the other males. In the end they let her go and she flew a short way off but came back quacking and indignant.
     

     
Also found a Coots nest with one day old chicks. Very cute....


I also like to keep an eye on any new wildfowl introductions to the collection at Martinmere. The newest exhibit has a pair of Flying Steamer ducks. Very unusal looking large birds and quite aggressive. I think I might enjoy photographing some of their antics.