General Chat

Today's the day! The wild duck which decided that our old greenhouse would be just right for nesting, has so far hatched, I think 2 ducklings, this morning. Can't be sure because they are still tucked under Mum... I know it's an every day occurence, but I'm just so thrilled that they're here. There were at least 7 eggs, probably more, so don't know how many will hatch.

Congratulations, you must be very proud !

Well done and congratulations to you and the other mum. Don't forget the camera! Jacky:-)

oh how lovely! wish I had them in my greenhouse, it will be fascinating for you to watch their developement. I too would be very excited. xx

Oh gosh, it's making me feel quite broody again!!! Norah

what a lovely thing on a monday morning, you must be proud love sandra

UPDATE...There are 12 little ducklings following their mum, exploring my garden and jumping in and out of the water dishes I placed for them. Thank you all for your good wishes and thoughts. Yes, - a very happy Monday here today!

lovely gwyneth, i once was an ugly duckling !!!! no they must be cute lol sandra

Some of us are still ugly ducklings !

oh gwyneth - that sounds lovely :-) thanks for sharing - as the others said - it cheers up a monday morning

Gwyneth - how exciting, wish l had them here - and yes piccies please,praps you could put them on She's site???? Jude :o)

Hi Gwyneth It's nice to hear some cheerful news these days. Congratulations, and well done that Mother Duck!! Lynda x

Fox cubs are great to watch too, though not in the same garden.! Actually feeling rather low here, re. ducklings.... Folk may recall from a recent posting about goslings that our visiting duck had not thought how she was going to get her babies out of our garden. We live on the edge of open farmland, with foxes and lots of magpies around. Being near the sea we have alot of gulls on the rooftops too.Yesterday I was up before 5 am, on magpie/gull patrol, watching that they didn't swoop in and take any ducklings. I tried coaxing 'Mum', in the hope that we could take her and babies to a canal, a few streets away but no luck.Eventually called RSPCA, and a chap came and caught the ducklings and although he was patient, he just couldn't catch the mother,so the ducklings have gone to an animal sanctuary to be cared for.He said more than likely all will survive, whereas left to nature maybe only about 4 would avoid the preying birds, or pike in the canal. I feel really bad for separating them after all her dedicated sitting to hatch them and keep thinking of her.

Hi Gwyneth - l think l would have done the same thing as you, they are all here to tell the tale and mum can produce more l am sure - well done:0) Jude