Quackers

On a recent walk around Linlithgow Loch we counted 11 bedraggled ducklings who had just come out from a swim and were busy preening themselves.

Mum looked over them. It’s a huge brood to watch over and no doubt some will be predated by gulls and herons. This one is so tiny it could easily fit inside this takeaway cup to the right hand side of it.

Their webbed feet look huge compared to the rest of them.

I’ve yet to see ducklings on our local canal. It won’t be long now I’m sure. A pair of swans have nested next to a bridge and when the female, known as the “pen” stood up there were five huge eggs revealed.

The eggs didn’t stay visible for long however, as she covered them over with feathers and detritus before going for a wee swim next to the male “cob”.

Meanwhile the owlets have been stretching their wings and looking like they might branch out from the nest. This photo was from a few days ago.

Today we checked up on them and they are still in the nest. Perhaps the parents will entice them out soon.