Mallards have one to two broods of ducklings a year, and can lay up to 13 eggs. At this time of year it’s a treat to watch fluffy ducklings on ponds, lakes, rivers and canals.
You may notice that if you go back to where you’ve seen ducklings before there may be less of them. This Mallard duck on my nearby pond originally had at least six ducklings but by the time I went to see them there was only this one left.
Our local pond has been attracting gulls recently, I suspect to pick off off ducklings for a tasty treat. Herons will eat them too.
On a recent walk along the canal a cheeky wee Mink came up to say hello. I was delighted to see it and photograph it. However, it too will enjoy gobbling up a duckling. But then this is nature, and possibly why ducks have such large broods to begin with.
Sarah's Wildlife Watch 