We see this pair, or a similar pair of mallards, in our neighborhood every spring. They wander along the sidewalks covering large swaths of our subdivision. When luck is with the ducks, children meet them on their way with pieces of bread. The ducks eat with gusto.

This year there was a noticeable difference in attitude between the male and the female. The female was an old pro at this routine. She came forward for gifts of bread without hesitation. The male was more reserved. He held back and required coaxing. He was clearly nervous—he was new to this and wasn’t quite sure what to make of all the attention he was getting.

At one point, a person walking their dog passed by on the opposite side of the street. The male flattened himself into the grass in response—a comical and half-hearted attempt at hiding.

A few minutes later the ducks were on their way with full bellies!

Mallard - Rite of Spring

Mallard - Rite of Spring

Mallard - Rite of Spring

Mallard - Rite of Spring

Mallard - Rite of Spring

Mallard - Rite of Spring

Mallard - Rite of Spring

Mallard - Rite of Spring

Mallard - Rite of Spring

Mallard - Rite of Spring

"Hiding" from a dog.
“Hiding” from a dog.

Observations Details

County Denton
City Carrollton
Date Apr 15, 2013
Time of Day Afternoon
Temperature Warm (70-89°F/21-32°C)
Weather Clear
Habitat Residential-Single Family
Type of Behavior Roaming
Gender Mixed
Maturity Adult
Observer Chris Jackson
Main Article Mallard Observation Location

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