Broad Branch Ducklings Are Growing Up

by Marlene Berlin

What do I do when I want to procrastinate? I go to Broad Branch stream to see what’s new and hope to catch sight of the ducklings.

This past Wednesday was one of those days. First I saw a lone female, which flew off with my approach. But I didn’t find the rest so easily. I wondered, sadly, if they had already grown up and left to follow their own destinies.

Then I walked farther into the site and caught them doing a lot more than just paddling after their mom. As they’ve grown, she has receded into the background.

Here are the same ducklings, not even four weeks ago.