This is a Whistling Duck. Recently moved into the area. But that is only part of the story.
Do you see this big ‘ugly’ white plastic, and huge, bird house. Could be any more intrusive in the wild?
This is an Owl box. According to naturalists, and the box manufacturer, it is cool in the sun and perfect for Owls.
Except Owls don’t want anything to do with them. They are scattered around the South Carolina swamps and woods. All dirty and as far as I can tell void of any Owls, ever!
Finally a bird moved in. It was a duck, but it’s still in the bird family.
This Whistling Duck was probably hatched here, it looks young. This is good because there is a substantial investment in white boxes and the Whistling Duck is just becoming common in the area.
Still an eyesore but now they may become duck condos.
I guess it knows a “cool” place when it sees one. 🙂
I knew one day I would see one in use.
This duck isn’t so picky as owls, she is smart.
Standing proudly as she especially posing for you. So wonderful!
And wondering what this new 2 legged critter is all about.
Looks like the king of his Castle 🏰
And waiting for the servants to bring food…the adults.
Posing in front of her new home. She’s so pretty! Owl condos and gator ramps…the wildlife is well loved in SC!
Certainly a contradiction thats for sure.
They probably would prefer to be left alone. Hopefully people resist the urge to build bird size coffee shops in the swamps for them too!
A coffee truck would be nice in January. Cold and windy.
🤣ideally right between the Owl Condo development and the gator ramps! 😂
Nice to see these ducks reaching the SC coast! Love your last shot, Ted.
Thanks. Yes, nice to see them here. They have a bad habit of raising the young out in the open swamps. Not good around here but it must work out since they are still breeding.