Tags
This was the scene I encountered during a recent walk around Roath Park Lake. It immediately struck me as odd as you almost never see mallards in trees, so what on earth were they doing? There’s a story here. I was on my way to catch a train so couldn’t linger long, so I don’t know what the story is, but there’s definitely a story. Feel free to post your suggestions in the comments below. Sensible or silly, I’d welcome your ideas.
I can’t wait to see if they do nest there- much safer from gulls!
There was no action when I passed a couple of days ago but I’ll keep looking.
Mallards do sometimes nest in trees, on window ledges if there’s a box or railings, and in quite a variety of places. I think it’s likely they were using or considering using the tree for such a purpose.
Interesting! I’ve never seen or heard of that before, Paul, so thanks for the info.
Annie, see, for example, this article about one such local pair: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1281566/This-mallards-ard-Daisy-duck-lays-eggs-city-centre-pubs-window-box-FIFTH-year-running.html
Very cute. My guess would be checking out a nesting site, but I don’t know if these ducks actually nest in trees.
Thanks, Debbie. Mallards don’t usually nest in trees so it would be very unusual, and major issues would be how they would feed any ducklings or, eventually, get them into the water. 🙂
I love the photo in which both ducks stick their heads down the hole in that tree.
Thanks! They were rather comical to watch. I wish I could’ve stayed longer to see what happened.
Are you sure you put the kids in here? Well they’re not there now!
Oh well done, Paul. I did wonder if they were considering the spot for nesting.