Mama and Papa Duck

Yes, we have had the Ducks over a lot while they are in town and they do have names, Mama Duck and Papa Duck. They typically come over to our house late every afternoon for hors d'oerves but will often pop by for breakfast or brunch as well. Fortunately, their unannounced visits do not require much last minute food preparation, just a slice of bread or two makes for a nice informal get together which is usually followed by time in the garden eating grass and bugs. We typically prepare a bath for them as well. It seems very appreciated. They cool their feet or tummies, drink from it and occasionally splash around in it.

We have gotten so accustomed to the Duck's daily visits that we worry when they do not show up at their usual times. Perhaps they will bring their children (ducklings) to visit soon.

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!