Was watching a muskrat swimming in the grass along this creek just upstream of a beaver dam, waiting for him to get closer, when I caught movement in my peripheral. First it was 2 ducklings at about 15 feet, then the rest with mom leading the way.....wood ducks !! To have wood duck in the wild so close is very rare, but never have been this close to the ducklings. Wood ducks are so secretive, steathy and very wary, so this was a very special moment. They nest in tree cavities, so it must have been a bit crowded with 9 young ones sharing a small hole, though they do leave the nest very soon after hatching.
The hen did spot some movement, but it wasn't enough to alarm her, though she did keep a eye on me. They milled about for a short time eating and working their way downsteam. Unfortunatly, only had this small window through the grass to get a clear view with the camera, but very thankful for the experience........don't know where the muskrat went though - maybe next time

[Setter Dog]

Woodies are wonderful ducks. Those are really nice shots. Thanks!

Jack

[longbow]

Woodies are wonderful ducks

Yes they are, thanks

[slowpez]

She has quite a large brood. Enjoyed the series. The last group we saw like that was being tailed by a small alligator. Mom was down to three chicks.

[longbow]

She has quite a large brood. Enjoyed the series. The last group we saw like that was being tailed by a small alligator. Mom was down to three chicks.

Thanks. Fortunatly they don't have those kind of preditors in this area. Closer to the river and sloughs, largemonth bass and other preditors take a toll on ducklings. They have lots of good thick cover where they are at and will be fine until they start to fly when they'll have to contend with hawks.
Went back this morning to try get more photos, could hear the hens calling a couple times, but couldn't spot them. Though inconvient for photography, I'm glad they have the thick brush & grass to help keep them safe. Will keep watching for when they start to fly.