Ducklings & Deer, Swans & Beer

Finally a day of sunshine, and although I was able to get out and about along the river, the wildlife still doesn't seem to want to play. Leaving me resigned to photographing the ever present Mute Swan family. Who appear to have lost a Cygnet since I last saw them, but are still doing well to have 6 now out of 7, 5 or 6 weeks after they were born,

Mute Swan Family 

The one constant along with the rain at the moment is the family of Mallard Ducklings that seem to be living on our lawn day and night, holding my Mum ransom for food. They seem to be pretty daring too, dodging the gauntlet of 3 Spaniels to come a good 30 yards from the safety of the river. Its almost quite funny to watch now as the Dogs appear not to be giving them a second thought until they edge almost to the point of no return. But so far its Ducklings 12 Spaniels Nil.

Mallard Ducklings

Mallard Ducklings

Mallard Ducklings

Mallard Ducklings

After a few beers and a sun soaked BBQ, a late evening walk along the River followed, we paused quite a while trying to make out what had disturbed 2 Roe Deer in one of the Water meadows as they ran at quite a speed round and round in circles. We soon then realised that it was the Buck chasing the Doe in tight figure of eights. A little bit of research proved to be the mating ritual, something none of us had witnessed before. As apparently it takes place usually at first light or dusk.

Randy Roe

http://www.facebook.com/MartinClayPhotography I would be more than grateful for any 'Likes' or Comments on my FB Photography Page.