The Gardens Staff quickly built a ramp so that the ducklings could make their way out of the pool to feed and to find a new spot for a nest. As with any family this size, momma had here hands full trying to encourage the runt to catch up while her explorer was already on the lip of the pool and ready to take off.
Eventually a second ramp was built at the other end of the pool and a tulip pot was placed so the top was at water level in the hope that the momma duck would relocate the nest there. She did not and she also had to abandon the remaining three eggs in the original nest in order to take care of her seven hatchlings.
Tomorrow the family poses for a portrait in their new surroundings at the side of the pool.
(Nikon D200, 70-200mm VR @ 86mm, 1/350s, f/6.3, iso 400), Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD, 5/9/2007
About me
I work for a public Botanical Gardens in the Wings of Fancy Butterfly Exhibit. Since my passion is nature photography, this is a fun job for me. Images posted on this blog are © 2002-2008 by Bud Cline (dba, images by buddell) and all rights are reserved. No image may be used in any way without written permission.
I work for a public Botanical Gardens in the Wings of Fancy Butterfly Exhibit. Since my passion is nature photography, this is a fun job for me. Images posted on this blog are © 2002-2008 by Bud Cline (dba, images by buddell) and all rights are reserved. No image may be used in any way without written permission.
Currently, I am...
Having fun: with my new Nikon D700 camera!
Having fun: with my new Nikon D700 camera!