It was a slow day today. I work in a new, small research park-style office complex in Campbell, California. Right next to us is a similarly new park. In addition to the usual open space, trees, and picnic tables, the park also features a couple of natural areas, including a babbling brook and native California plants.
But the best part is the adjacent settling ponds that the local water utility uses to recharge the underground aquifer. Aside from giving an extra boost to the ambience of the park, they provide a home for birds, including ducks, geese, white birds, brown birds, and some of those medium-sized wonders that dive after fish.
And ducklings at this time of the year. As I was standing there this afternoon, a mother duck, two males, and seven ducklings hove into view. The mother and kids were munching on the greenery that is already beginning to take over the pond, and the guys were hanging out on the periphery, probably talking about the latest Sharks disaster.
Two ducks came roaring over at low level, prompting the two males to blast off in pursuit.
"Back later, Myrtle, we're going out with the guys."
"Hey! You promised to help the kids with their flying lessons..."
11:05:48 PM 
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