While working quietly this morning, I had the distinct feeling that I was being watched. I turned around to find this young mum at my window. She has been at my window alot lately, even when it’s open she doesn’t hesitate to pop her head in. I’m not sure why she suddenly feels the need to come so close, have I been feeding her and her little ones too much from the kitchen window and now she expects more? There is a silent rule between me and the water creatures that I will only give when I can, not when they want. And of course when there are little ones around I will give a little extra – you know, instead of just the left over stale slices of bread I might throw in a fresh slice.
But this one doesn’t seem to understand the boundaries. She has been shooed off a number of times but still, she persists. She looks at me in a way that makes me feel guilty for not having food for her when she needs it, and some times I cave in and give her the only piece of bread left, the very slice I was about to eat. Then I see other canal dwellers like myself throw great bundles of bread out for her and her family and I say to her, “you see? Not only do you live in an already incredibly bountiful environment, you are also given so much on a regular basis, much much more than is given to those around you. You have more than enough so be happy with what you have, don’t wish for more”.
But still, she stares at me through my window. It’s become clear that we don’t understand each other and that perhaps I have given too much. I’ve decided it’s time I stop.
xx
PS I am going to announce the giveaway winner tomorrow! I hope the suspense does not drive you mad before then…
What a sweet face she has. Cheeky wee thing! I wouldn’t be able to resist either Pia. Not at all.
May 9th, 2010 | #
She’s very cute, that young mum! But cheeky and greedy to it seems… Have a great Sunday!
May 9th, 2010 | #
Just gorgeous! I can see how it’s difficult to say no, but I think you’re making the right decision… isn’t it true that ducks shouldn’t eat bread? Anyway, perhaps she’s not hungry after all, but just checking out her reflection in your window!
May 9th, 2010 | #
That’s so cute! Seeing her little face pop up in the window would make me laugh.
May 9th, 2010 | #
What amazing photographs …. she is divine, I would have to feed her too .. I have bush turkeys popping up at my window quite often and a wonderful peacock who visits from time to time… PS. what an amazing place you live in !!!
May 9th, 2010 | #
She’s beautiful! I think she’s developed a fondness for you now & you won’t get rid of her so easily:) Soon you’ll have all her little ducklings watching you work too!
May 9th, 2010 | #
It is amazing that you can actually look at a duck straight in the eye. It’s like a neighbor popping over to chat…only this one wants to be feed!
May 9th, 2010 | #
But how wonderful to look up and see a mommy duck looking at you! I think I’d ahve a difficult time not feeding her; she seems to have become your little wild pet.
May 9th, 2010 | #
Very very pretty pics. Have a wonderful day!
May 9th, 2010 | #
oh, but she provided you with the chance to get a great picture that made me laugh out loud! maybe she’s curious about your home as well?
May 9th, 2010 | #
I just discovered your blog. Those are beautiful photos!
May 10th, 2010 | #
Oh, how I love this post! The chick is so cute and fuzzy, and then the mother looks you straight in the face…. great photography!!
Northern Light
May 10th, 2010 | #
isn’t she lovely!!!
May 10th, 2010 | #
..wise counsel to the beautiful Mother Duck…..
May 10th, 2010 | #
She’s lovely. Although I can’t help being reminded of the penguin from Wallace & Gromit – there’s something in that steady gaze…
…Beautiful pics, as always!
May 10th, 2010 | #
Looking forward to hear the lucky winner 😉
May 10th, 2010 | #
How cute! But remember that too much bread is actually bad for birds and causes all kinds of diseases and abnormalities of growth. Just because it doesn’t have all the nutritions they need. They don’t get it and if bread is too easily available they’d only eat it. So next time you can eat your last piece of bread with clean conscience!
Your house is awesome!
May 10th, 2010 | #
Hi Anna,
I’ve often thought about this, thanks for the clarity. I actually throw most of my food scraps out the window for the birds because there are lots of different species that I know appreciate the diversity. The others like to eat all sorts of things like carrot peelings, peas, broccoli, cereal etc but the ducks won’t go near any of it! They only like bread. the only consolation is that the bread we eat is the best there is – full of grains, no sugar and often gluten free.
Anyway, it doesn’t make a scrap of difference because someone else will just throw out huge amounts of cheap bread. Maybe that is why this duck comes to my window, maybe she knows the good stuff is in here! haha. I have no idea.
Francesca – totally!! I think this young mum is a bit evil to be honest.
May 10th, 2010 | #
I hate to add to it, as I would adore to have ducks visting me, but bread is actively bad for ducks. Sadly, I presume you don’t have many spare snails…
May 10th, 2010 | #
she’s awfully cute for someone so annoying!
May 10th, 2010 | #
oh, that’s only the cutest thing i’ve ever seen!!!!!! pia, i adore that 🙂 i’m sending you a wave from my desk in manhattan, where i look over honking taxis and a noisy restaurant 🙂
May 10th, 2010 | #
Maybe this little duck just wants some attention!! She looks so cute and maybe just wants to be your friend…..we used to have our own little ducks that we raised from babies and they really love people. She might just want to get to know you!! You are so lucky to have such a wonderful visitor!
Debbie
May 10th, 2010 | #
Gorgeous images, Pia. The creature seems to have taken a fancy to you – perhaps the bread you offer is superior to others in the neighbourhood? 🙂
May 10th, 2010 | #
You have such an eye!
May 10th, 2010 | #
That is adorable!
May 12th, 2010 | #
anatidaephobia: the fear that somewhere, somehow, a duck is watching you. (-the far side)
May 14th, 2010 | #
You’re fortunate to have such a wonderful little visitor every day. I’d love to live there–looks picturesque!
May 16th, 2010 | #
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May 25th, 2010 | #