Sitting duck

For a week our walk has taken us past a mallard nesting deep in a tufty clump of grass. Bean alerted me to the presence of a feathery one sticking tightly to her eggs.

She was a sitting duck. Literally. It was inevitable that the nest would be predated. The area is frequented by feral cats, stoats, rats and possums, all of whom would welcome a meal of fresh eggs.

So it was no surprise to find this scene today.

Chances are the duck got away and I hope she will select a more secure nesting location for a second brood.