Around the Ranch

A look at activities, events, and news at Nellie Gail Ranch and the people (and pets) that make up the community. Devoted to keep the community connected and bring it closer together.

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Thursday, May 8, 2008

Winter Migration




It seems that mallard ducks like Nellie Gail Ranch. Each year a few of these beautiful waterfowl decide to stick around to nest rather than make the migration back up to their nesting grounds in Alaska and Canada. Last spring we had a pair living in the Broken Bit area with about a half dozen ducklings waddling close behind as they would feed on the grass or swim in the pool.



This couple was nibbling on some grass and seemed a bit camera shy. They would turn and walk away from me at all angles so the best I would get was this picture from behind.


These birds migrate each year from Alaska and Canada to Salton Sea in the Imperial Valley and Mexico during winter months. This migratory route is known as the Pacific Flyway and is used by many migratory birds. The mallard duck is thought to be the most abundant duck on earth.



Mallard groups can often be seen head dipping or completely upending in the water dabbling for invertebrates, fish, amphibians, and a variety of plants. They also graze on land, feeding on grains and plants. They normally lay about a dozen eggs with an incubation period of just under a month. It's nice to see that some of these hearty travellers appreciate the fine living found in Nellie Gail Ranch!

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