Young Paradise Shelduck tries his wings...........

I don't know who was more distressed, me or the bird, on finding him alone on the beach. Went up the paddock to count our Family and sure enough it was one of the 13 babies. He was flapping and trying but obviously was not up to scratch yet. Much to my relief (and his !) all the rest flew back in to the beach shortly after. What a sight, 14 birds in the air, all talking....must try to catch them - Family flying. I have taken photos since they were born and have learnt a lot about their lifestyle - just agog with admiration - safely raising 13 ducks is no mean feat !