Well it didn't take long for the mallards to become aviators...
One by one they practiced their wing exercises by flapping wildly until they were on tip toe. I could see that some were getting it faster than the others. There is one who stands out from the crowd that I call "Clueless". I believe this is the same duck that went AWOL with Fast Eddie.
Clueless looks like a hen and even though she seems "clueless", she has some intelligent looks about her. For example, when they all decide to chase each other in the pool, she jumps out and watches carefully. When the others are through being reckless and get out to preen, she jumps in and has the whole pool to herself. Smart eh?
One Sunday afternoon the ducks were out in there pen swimming and Cochise decided to get a bit too close to the pool. This started what was to become the Great Escape II. All it took was for one duck to go airborne and they ALL were in the air. Although the flights were short and landings somewhat humorous, I was saddened to see them go.... and all at once!
About a half hour later, unexpectedly, 5 ducks marched down the lawn from the woods and went to the pool. Number 6 however did not return. I believe it to be Fast Eddie. Even though he/she was a trouble maker, I still will miss him/her. It's been over a week now and still no sign of Eddie.
One morning, very early and foggy, I went to get the paper from the box and I heard the famous LOUD QUACK QUACK QUACK! For a moment I was elated to hear what I thought was Eddie. I went to the side of the road and called to him/her. I got an answer! Happy Days! However, I still cannot find Eddie and he/she still has not returned.
For several days I kept quacking and calling for Eddie. No luck. But, not to be discouraged, I went further down the road and discovered that there is a large pond I forgot about across the road. I used binoculars and scanned the shore, but found nothing. Then I thought perhaps I would put on my hip-waders and go down to the pond and grab that little *$%&& by the neck and bring him/her home!!!
Then it occurred to me that wading in a secluded pond of unknown depth was not prudent. So, I walked up the road over seeing the pond to take one more look. Guess what? I see about 7 ducks swimming in the pond! I wondered, is one of these Eddie? I could never be certain, but I am hoping that he/she is having a good time with the wild ducks and not have become lunch for some night time predator.
Anyway.... farewell Eddie! (wherever you are)
Love,
Mom
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