We've had a lot of trouble in our neighborhood the last few days.
It has to do with ducks.
They've been blockading our road.
They aren't letting anybody through without a fuss. No one knows quite why they're there. They aren't crossing the road. There's nothing in particular for them to eat there. They just stand there. For hours at a time. Sometimes for so long they sit down and fall asleep.
Today's flock was a little smaller. I hope it has to do with the rain and not, you know, casualties. Even when they confine themselves to a smaller area, however, we're reduced to one-lane traffic. Drivers have been very good-natured about the delay. They laugh; they shrug. Some people, once they get through, turn around and go back to take a picture.
At some moment understood by the ducks but not me, they move off the road and line up nicely by the gate on the farm lane.
One by one, they, for lack of a better term, duck under the gate. If they went side by side they could get through a lot quicker, but they seem to prefer it this way.
They quack among themselves and start walking back the lane to their pond, probably half a mile away.
I don't think this sign applies to them.
That's what I like about living out here. Nothing ever really happens, but there's always something happening.
thank you for sharing this story and all the pictures. I chuckled and smiled and throughly enjoyed it.
Posted by: Michele Gailey | August 14, 2011 at 05:55 PM
Wow B that is a lot of quackers! Who knows what makes critters do what they do. I once came home to find a flock (or gang, not sure which) of 10-15 turkeys who had settled on my garage and sun room rooftop (where they could peek in the window at our dogs). Why they would do that I have no idea (and was amazed that turkeys could get up there in first place). If nothing else a story to share - most exciting thing that had happened for me in a while....what a sorry life...LOL Jewels
Posted by: Julie | August 14, 2011 at 06:17 PM
This story really makes me smile. Thank you for sharing. :)
As for why they're hanging out on the road, other than a sacred burial ground or something out of a Stephen King novel, I can't imagine their reasoning......
Posted by: Maria (Magia Mia) | August 14, 2011 at 06:32 PM
MR DUCKS.
MR NOT.
OSMR.
CM EDBE FEET?
LIB.
MR DUCKS.
One of my favorite stupid jokes that I just had to share. Grat photos and a great story too! Quack!
Posted by: Shara | August 14, 2011 at 06:32 PM
Cute post! We have a problem with geese around here. I saw a truck recently for a service that helps re-locate problem geese. The name of the company was "Goose Busters." Isn't that clever?
Posted by: Mitzi Curi | August 14, 2011 at 06:53 PM
I know they could be a bit of a nuisance but I do think they look awfully darn cute. How strange that they choose to stay in the street. Maybe they just like having their picture taken. I am so glad you shared these photos. I really enjoyed them.
Danielle
Posted by: My Blessed Serendipity Life | August 14, 2011 at 07:22 PM
OH MY! That is a LOT of ducks! Maybe they are having a convention to decide where to go this winter! WOW! ♥
Posted by: Lavender Dreams | August 14, 2011 at 07:35 PM
The twins would be out of their trees with excitement. If we see a squirrel on the way home, they talk about it the rest of the way...and bunnies...forget it. We went to the Fair last night and HAD to see all of the cows (Joe) and pigs (Rory). Ahhh, the simple life!
Posted by: Vicki | August 14, 2011 at 08:48 PM
Wow! You're living on a regular old wildlife preserve these days. Or, a zoo! LOL. You should put up a sign that says "Duck crossing" just like the deer crossing signs.
Posted by: Joy | August 14, 2011 at 09:22 PM
I love ducks, but that many would scare me - like I was witnessing a weird Stephen King movie or something.
Your country road makes me miss being up north in the summertime!
Posted by: Tina | August 14, 2011 at 09:57 PM
Just ducky!
xo
Pam
Posted by: Pam Fromuth | August 14, 2011 at 10:26 PM
Wow ... that is unusual. I hope that they move out of the road very soon ... in case someone doesn't slow down. Thanks for sharing.... I really enjoy your nature segments !
Posted by: Lisa W. | August 15, 2011 at 12:00 AM
Sounds like they are adding some excitement to life and what a curious thing. I am partial to ducks as I graduated from the University of Oregon and the mascot is a fierce and mighty duck. Being a human duck, I can offer no insight into this odd behavior Quack!
Posted by: laurie magpie ethel | August 15, 2011 at 12:06 AM
I love this. Ducks forcing folks to just slow down and enjoy the view for a change!
Posted by: Kathy | August 15, 2011 at 01:10 AM
I'm enjoying all your duck adventures over my morning coffee. Lovely pictures. Let's hope they continue to migrate to safer territories.
Posted by: Musings from Kim K. | August 15, 2011 at 07:18 AM
Great pictures! Never can tell what critters will do. Ours out here treat us like we're IN the zoo. They're just visiting, seeing what the humans are up to while they munch on their apples. Now that's entertainment! I understand how you feel.
Posted by: Kat | August 15, 2011 at 07:50 AM
I love what you said about "nothing ever happens here but something's always happening". Sounds like a perfect place to be!
Posted by: Renee Wheeler | August 15, 2011 at 09:06 AM
I love the green grass, the hills and the ducks!
Posted by: freckled hen | August 15, 2011 at 09:19 AM
Awww how cute!! Do you think they realize they could just fly over the gate??
Posted by: Lori @ My Vintage Whimsy | August 15, 2011 at 05:16 PM
I wonder if they need a ride into town? Did anyone stop and ask?
Posted by: Into Vintage | August 15, 2011 at 10:10 PM