A pair of mallard ducks keep their four babies close. Unlike the blind, helpless chicks of songbirds, young waterfowl come out of the egg with eyes open and a full coat of down, and can leave the nest a few hours after hatching. The adults have only to guard their brood from danger, for the babies can even feed themselves.

 

What a delight it is to catch a glimpse of these bright, beautiful birds in flight, or happily paddling along a stream.