After a swim, back to the nest.

Momma Muscovy Duck dutifully led her brood to the nearby lake every day for about ten days. She would let the babes have a paddle around for a while then lead them back to the nest she’d made in my friend’s porch. She’d often give them a rest-break en route, herding them into the shade beneath someone’s garden furniture.

A Tender Moment

A muscovy duck made her nest in my friend’s porch and laid 16 eggs. Her ducklings were an absolute delight and she always looked so proudly maternal. After about 10 days the family made their final trek to the nearby lake.