"'Cause You've Got Personality!"

(Photos:  1-- Brad, Piggy and Wiggly at Harlem Meer.  2-- Buster )

 

Anyone who is caregiver to and loves a dog or cat will attest to the emotional lives of their animals and to the animals distinct personalities.

 

I am caregiver to two wonderful, rescued dogs and five cats, each with his or hers unique characteristics.

 

A few days ago, I wrote about "jealousy" in geese.

 

A reader questioned that post and I am sure to some it seemed that I was wrongly attributing a uniquely human emotion to an animal.

 

While it cannot be proven that a familiar goose's seeming snub and rejection of a food treat was based upon "jealousy" over the giver first hand-feeding a mallard, I know for a fact that dogs and cats experience and exhibit jealousy as well as other "human" emotions.

 

One of my dogs for example, is very jealous any time she sees me paying attention to and petting one of the other pets in my home.   Even if "Tina" is sleeping, she will immediately get up, walk over and interject herself between me and the animal I am petting.

 

Tina is very close to my other dog, Chance and indeed I often view the two like an "old, married couple."  It is not a matter of the dogs disliking each other and/or not getting along.

 

But, if I pet or brush Chance (my Pomeranian) without doing the same with her, Tina immediately becomes anxious and demands to get her share, just like a small child sometimes gets jealous of parental attention to a sibling and demands the same.

 

One of my cats also seems to exhibit some form of jealousy.

 

When "Dolce" sees me leaving with my two dogs for a walk, she waits for any opportunity to sneak and dart out the door.

 

I cannot count the times I have had to bring my dogs back into the apartment and run up or down the hall stairs to retrieve my "jealous," wayward cat.  -- Something very frustrating to both me and my dogs -- but apparently great fun for Dolce!

 

And so yes, I believe many animals experience emotions similar to humans as well as they possess unique personalities.

 

That applies to geese and ducks as well as dogs, cats and other animals.

 

To most people casually walking by a pond or lake, the ducks and geese all look the same and seemingly behave the same.

 

But, I am fortunate over the past couple of years to have the opportunity to get to "know" a number of geese and ducks on more than just a casual, pass-by basis.

 

And there is no question of their distinct and very different personalities.

 

The three domestic, flightless ducks at Harlem Meer, for example -- Brad, Piggly and Wiggly.

 

Brad is of course the "worker" and leader of the group.  For the several years I have observed and known Brad, he has always come off as the serious, focused, hard-working (especially in winter), smart and wary duck.

 

Brad always seems to be "thinking" and planning his next move.  Being flightless, he has had to plan and maneuver his actions and alliances in order to survive in an environment that at times can be very hard and challenging.

 

Over the years, Brad has had to endure and acclimate to harsh winters (in which most of the lake freezes over), storms, blizzards, dogs, fishing lines, human cruelty, loss of his flock mates, a constantly changing array of different birds on the lake and even waterfowl harassment.

 

Brad's abilities to survive and endure have seemingly transformed Brad into a very wise and especially serious and focused duck.   Nothing Brad does seems to be without forethought  or is done "just for fun."  He is steadfast, rock solid, careful and always, always alert.

 

I have not had such opportunity to get to "know" Piggly and Wiggly as long and well as Brad as both Kacki Campbell flightless ducks mysteriously showed up at Harlem Meer over this past fall.

 

But, even in these few short months, the two ducks already show distinct personalities.

 

Wiggly is the "opportunist" and Piggly is the "jokester."

 

Wiggly grabs every opportunity for food and has figured out the best way to get it is by positioning herself directly under any bird I hand-feed whether that bird be Brad, Chrissy or even Buster.

 

Piggly on the other hand, is quick, impulsive, risk-taking and somewhat independent.   He gets food by darting wherever it is tossed and quite literally "stealing" from other birds and then jumping away.   Piggly also likes to startle and peck at geese as a way of annoying or even playing a joke on the larger, slower birds. (Hence, the term, "jokester" for Piggly.)

 

Geese of course have different and distinct personalities as the ducks do.

 

From the cautious, guarded, easily spooked, "shrinking violet"  behavior exhibited by the ten shy geese who molted at Harlem Meer last summer to the bold, brash, confident and dominating behavior and personality of Buster who I commonly write of now.   Each goose is uniquely different and even within gaggles, the behavior is not always identical.

 

Buster's mate, Brianna for example, seems the polar opposite to her boisterous, loud partner.  Refined, cautious, delicate and dainty, Brianna is like an English princess compared to her mate who is more like a Texas bronco rider. (Certainly, Buster likes to "ride" the other geese!)

 

All geese of course exhibit certain traits notable for the species. For examples, loyalty, organization, cooperation and devotion to mates, offspring and flocks.  But, even within the typical, there are the untypical geese. The ones more risk-taking, adventurous, curious and testing of family bonds.

 

"Every family has one," I wrote a month or two ago.  That was in reference to a young goose wandering away from the family prompting two of the siblings to come, watch over and presumably bring him back to the fold.

 

In essence, it is not just humans experiencing "emotions" and possessing unique personality.

 

In my observances and experiences, all of the higher, more evolved animals do as well --and that includes geese and ducks.

 

To quote an old Lloyd Price rock song from decades ago:

 

'Cause you've got PERSONALITY!"

 

And indeed, they do. ;)  -- PCA

 

 

                                                             ***********

 

To the Geese and Ducks, Already Spring?

Photos:  1-- Brianna, the model and Buster's mate, posing for a photo. 2-- Buster, feeling his oats and laying down rules. - Again!)

 

More waves of migratory geese and mallards making their way over and stopping briefly at Central Park.

 

There were a number of new geese and ducks at Harlem Meer Tuesday night.

 

Buster was not at all happy.

 

Normally, Buster does not mind migratory geese passing through and taking up  temporary residence at the Meer.  -- As long as they keep respectable distance and follow the rules.

 

But, that doesn't mean they can trudge all over Buster's space.

 

When first arriving to the Meer Tuesday night, things seemed normal.

 

"Loner" was the first goose to climb the embankment, along with the Bradley Brigade and the mallards.

 

Within a minute or two, Buster arrived with his gaggle.

 

But then, one or two families of new migratory geese trotted on the grass to check out what was happening.

 

The new geese did not keep respectable distance from Buster and his clan.  (And that is a major "no no.")

 

Buster was furious.   And though gently taking some sunflower seeds from my hand, he immediately ceased in order to "teach" the new geese a lesson or two.

 

And it was not only Buster, but several members of his gaggle.

 

Oh, such a commotion!

 

Suddenly feathers were flying, wings flapping and goose butts were getting pecked big time.   A few of the new geese were sent flying to the water.

 

One of Buster's charges managed to grab a wad of goose down in his mouth and then pranced around proudly like he had just won the Oscar! 

 

"Look what I got!!  That will show 'em!"

 

I am sure Buster would have been quite proud of his protege.  But, he was too busy chasing and pecking himself to probably notice the victories of his clan members.

 

I laughed at the goose with the wad of down in his mouth and wanted to grab a photo.  But, I was too overwhelmed with the extra mallards at my feet to even be able to move.  I almost stepped on one of them as it was.

 

With all the craziness and extra bird activity Tuesday night, not only was Chrissy (the lame mallard) hesitant to climb the embankment and eat from my hand, but even Brad seemed a bit intimidated by all the "action."

 

It took Brad a while to actually walk up to me and stake his claim for treat.   I could almost hear him muttering, "It is just too wild and crazy here tonight!"

 

The "goosing" and territorial claims-staking went on for some minutes. 

 

But, migratory geese are apparently not that easily intimidated.

 

Though the two migratory goose families did eventually move further along the embankment leaving Buster and clan their claimed "space," they did not entirely vacate.

 

Nevertheless, a truce was called and Buster returned to me for some treat -- or, in this case, "reward."

 

His other gaggle members, (proud of their "victories") quietly nibbled at pumpkin seeds on the ground, while Brianna (Buster's mate) proudly stood and posed for a photo. (Were Brianna a human instead of a goose, she would easily be a Vogue model -- especially with her long, elegant neck which she always seems to hold very high.)

 

In fact, so seemingly proud of her mate and family Tuesday night, Brianna actually took a few seeds from my hand!

 

Brianna was like a refined English dam sipping tea in the delicate way she took the treat.

 

"Just a little, please."

 

Although Buster usually admonishes gaggle members who dare take a treat from my hand, he did not correct his mate.  At least one of his flock gets some respect.

 

Matters finally peaceful on Tuesday, I gathered my dogs to leave.  As usual, Buster and family, as well as the ducks followed me in the water. 

 

The migratory geese however, remained on the embankment, resting. They had indeed had a rough evening and "welcoming" to Harlem Meer.

 

Walking home Tuesday evening via the Reservoir path, I noticed several new flocks of migratory geese on the water and heard the honks of others passing over the sky.

 

"You'd better not stop at the Meer." I warned them.  "Buster is not rolling out the red carpet tonight!"

 

Last night matters were once again, different.

 

I am not sure if the migratory geese were still at the Meer, but if they were, they did not dare tread on Buster's brashly claimed space.

 

As soon as I arrived to the Meer, Buster loudly honked from the east side of the lake and he and his gaggle flew across the water to immediately greet me even before the ducks.

 

But, even last night things were not all together "peaceful."

 

I don't know if Buster is simply teaching his flock how to be "tough" (they seem to be learning the lessons well) or he just won't tolerate his gaggle members taking any treats from my hand.   But, Buster spent far more time "goosing" his flock mates last night than actually taking treats from me.

 

I am almost sure now that the four "regular" (and smaller) geese with Buster and his mate are their offspring from last year.  One simply cannot imagine unrelated geese putting up with all this teaching and abuse (although the family appears to have two "hangers-on" geese who always keep a short distance away.  --Loner and another new goose.)

 

All these antics could however be the start of preparation for the upcoming spring and mating ritual.   Parent geese usually start pushing the offspring away shortly before they mate again.  Such scenes usually are not pretty.

 

Walking home last night by the Reservoir again, I noticed that the migratory geese from the night before seemed to have left.

 

I guess they got my message.  No red carpets in Central Park and especially Harlem Meer.  Buster is on the war path!

 

Or, maybe to the geese and ducks, it is already spring.

 

I did after all, see a drake and female mallard strolling romantically on one of the park lawns last night.

 

"Time to get away from the maddening crowd!" 

 

Signs of spring, indeed. -- PCA

 

 

                                                        ************ 

 

"Jealousy, Oh What You Do To Me!"

(Photos: 1--  A very indignant Buster last night. 2-- A very determined and now vigorous Chrissy warding the mallards away.)

 

Valentine's Day.

 

Unfortunately, my romance with Buster seems to be hitting some rough patches over the past few days and I believe that has something to do with jealousy.

 

But, more about that later......

 

Words cannot express the delight and surprise in witnessing Chrissy's almost miraculous and seemingly sudden recovery from the near debilitating injury or condition to her legs.

 

Though not yet 100% "normal," Chrissy is able now to enthusiastically hop on the embankment at Harlem Meer with ease and can stand and walk normally for at least a few steps!

 

Call me delusional, silly or "anthropomorphic" but I can almost hear Chrissy shouting when jumping up on the grass and trotting towards me with her face all lit up, "Look at me!   Look at what I can do now!"

 

The diminutive and scrappy mallard still plops down in a sitting position, but even with that, Chrissy apparently has new strength to ward off the mallards from overpowering her and grabbing the food.

 

Moreover, Chrissy has utilized her smarts and risk-taking capabilities to figure out that she gets far more food when eating directly from my hand (like Brad).  She has also used direct eye contact (like a flirty little girl) to always let me know where she is.   She is the one mallard who constantly does this.

 

It is truly amazing that lacking doctors and medicine to help them when they are in physical trouble, how some (or most?) animals are able to figure out means of overcoming their disabilities and surviving.

 

Certainly, the remarkable and scrappy little Chrissy is one of them. 

 

I truly never dreamed this frail and injured mallard had any chance of survival -- especially with the attacks from mallards that Chrissy had to endure in her weakened state.

 

But, Chrissy is far from "weak" now.   On the contrary, she seems to be gaining strength and vigor by the day.

 

Speaking of the incredible adaptive and survival skills of ducks and geese, yesterday, there was an unusual column describing these in geese:

 

http://www.mmegi.bw/index.php?sid=2&aid=505&dir=2012%2FFebruary%2FMonday13

 

Though not the strongest or fastest of birds, the strength of Canada geese lies in their "exceedingly great wisdom."

 

The piece goes on to describe how the migratory, cooperational and strategical planning skills of geese aid them in survival and achievement.

 

I would add to that list of course, complex communication skills as both geese and ducks are highly communicative animals as noted repeatedly in this journal.

 

"Communication" is something I experienced last night from Buster, my "semi-romantic" goose buddy at Harlem Meer.

 

But, it wasn't necessarily the kind of communication that I am accustomed to from Buster nor the kind usually associated with a "romantic" holiday.

 

On the contrary, Buster was obviously pissed with me last night.  Big time.

 

While squatting down to hand-feed Chrissy, I noticed a gaggle of geese arriving to the embankment.

 

The geese mostly stood at the edge of the embankment and curiously watched what was going on.

 

At first, I assumed it was the same curious and investigative gaggle seen the previously night.

 

But, then I noticed the large, powerful gander of the group "goosing" and keeping in line, the other members of the flock.  He also goosed some of the mallards.

 

Hm, could it be Buster and gang? I wondered.

 

But, why isn't Buster coming up to me and demanding treat?

 

Continuing to hand-feed Chrissy, while at the same time getting treats to Brad, Piggly, Wiggly and the other mallards, I put the question of geese identity out of my mind.

 

Mallards were scrambling at my feet, Brad was eating from one hand while Chrissy ate from the other. I was feeling a bit overwhelmed and that I needed more hands.

 

Finally, having eaten her fill, Chrissy trotted to the edge of the lake and was soon to return to the water when she sat on the grass.

 

Wanting to get a photo and/or toss a few extra treats to her, I slowly followed.

 

But, then a I felt a hard tug on my jacket sleeve!

 

"Ah, come on!  This is TOO much! What the hell are you doing?"

 

It was Buster letting me know he was none too pleased!

 

I turned around to face the insulted gander who then tried to ignore me by pretending it wasn't him who pecked my jacket.

 

Buster was facing the other way.

 

I held out my treat-filled hand as way of attempting to make amends, but Buster would have none of it.

 

"You are not going to bribe me now after giving priority to everyone else -- including a miserable little mallard!"

 

Eventually, Buster turned to look at me, but I could pretty much read the indignant message on his ego-stricken face.    He wanted nothing to do with hand treats last night or "amends."

 

Buster then returned to keeping his flock in line and goosing some of the feisty mallards getting in his way.

 

I attempted to offer some of the treats to one of Buster's gaggle members and the goose promptly hissed at me!

 

Apparently, I had pissed off all the geese last night.

 

Feeling somewhat "rejected" by Buster and his prideful gaggle, I finally tossed some treats their way (which they promptly ignored) and gathered up my two dogs to leave.

 

As I walked away from the feeding area, all eight geese loudly honked to each other and seemingly to me.

 

"Imagine that!  Hand-feeding all the good stuff to the beggar mallards and then thinking she can give the crumbs to us!   Who does she think we are?  We are not vagrants and we are never desperate!"

 

My Valentine's Day suddenly in tatters, I wondered if Buster and his gang would ever forgive me?

 

But, then as I began to exit the Meer, I noticed three of the geese following me in the water along with the Bradly Brigade, Chrissy, Dusky and the rest of the ducks.

 

I just don't know if Buster was one of them.

 

It seems I may have some major fence-mending ahead in the days to come.

 

Hopefully, as Chrissy continues to gain strength, she won't require continual hand-feeding.

 

That seems to be the proverbial "straw" that ruffled Buster's jealousy feathers.

 

"Jealousy, oh what you do to me!"

 

It seems that along with intelligence and strategical planning skills, geese are also subject to many of the emotions that humans experience -- jealousy and pride being just a few among them.  -- PCA

 

 

                                                        ***********

 

 

Winter's Scrappy Flowers

(Photos:  1-Chrissy sitting boldly and holding her own with the mallards last night.  2-- Gaggle of unfamiliar, but peaceful, curious geese. )

 

 

"They flourish in winter."

 

Such was the main thought last night when leaving Harlem Meer.

 

But, more about that later....

 

I left before dusk yesterday for Central Park because I wanted to make it home before the Grammy awards on TV.

 

Temperature was in the 20's with the wild chill bringing it down to the teens.

 

Walking along the Reservoir, I was at first struck by how foggy and misty it was.  Visibility was extremely low and it seemed like it might pour rain.

 

But, with the low temperature, it instead began to snow!

 

For a brief while, it was like walking through a blizzard.

 

The fierce winds caused the snow to blow horizontally, literally whipping across my face.

 

Within minutes, it began to dust the ground with a fine white powder.

 

I didn't know what to expect when reaching Harlem Meer.

 

Would the ducks and geese be hunkered down somewhere in order to avoid the battering winds and side blowing snow?

 

Surprisingly, the ducks were in the water in their usual place and I barely could make out some geese in the distance.

 

The snow began to subside as I made it around to the feeding area.  Brad, Piggly and Wiggly were the first ducks on the embankment and even before I could secure my dogs to a nearby park bench, all of the mallards were gathered and waiting.

 

Looking quickly among the bunch, I noted Chrissy who had just hopped on the embankment with confidence and enthusiasm.

 

She was actually walking!

 

The image startled me so much, I at first couldn't believe it was Chrissy.

 

Where and how had the sudden power come to her legs?

 

After some seconds, the lame duck did plop down and looked up at me to beseech treat. There was no doubt she was Chrissy.  But, I had never seen her walk or stand normally! 

 

The image was striking and truly a revelation.

 

I squatted down to put treats directly in front of the sitting duck, but Chrissy was actually eager to take them from my hand!

 

And unlike the night before when Chrissy was "piled up upon" by the mallards, last night, she was able to stretch her neck out and keep the mallards at bay.

 

I almost could not believe what I was seeing!

 

Chrissy standing and walking almost normally.  Chrissy boldly pushing away the mallards!

 

Did the sudden bolt of cold air, wind and snow cause this compromised duck to magically gain strength?

 

Or, was Chrissy simply so desperate for food that the harsh conditions sparked some rush of adrenalin to her weakened legs and impetus to her spirit to take risks and "fight" for what was hers?

 

Whatever it was, I was able to get a good supply of black oiled sunflower seeds and even some small bits of tomato and cooked squash to Chrissy last night.   It was utterly shocking and amazing!

 

Meanwhile, a gaggle of 8 geese had made it on to the edge of the embankment and were curiously watching and casually pecking at a few stray seeds on the ground.

 

I at first assumed they were Buster and his gaggle.

 

But, none of the geese actually approached me.

 

It seemed they were there more out of curiosity and investigation than actual hunger.

 

But, if I needed any "proof" that the geese were not Buster and his clan, it was obvious in the fact none of the geese were "goosing" other geese or pushing around the mallards!

 

They were actually a very peaceful and accommodating flock of geese.

 

Just at that moment, two geese took off honking, from the far side of the lake and flew directly overhead from the geese and ducks on the ground.     

 

All 8 geese on the embankment immediately stopped what they were doing, looked up attentively at the passing, honking pair of geese and then began to honk loudly themselves!

 

It was quite literally a chorus of honks exchanged from both the flying geese above and the ground geese calling up to them!

 

Ah, what I wouldn't have given to have some understanding of goose "language" and communications!

 

Were the 8 geese on the ground admonishing the pair of geese for leaving?

 

Or, were they simply bidding them a good journey?

 

"Have a good trip, guys.  Stay safe!"

 

For all my observations of geese and ducks over the past few years, I still cannot decipher actual goose or duck "talk."

 

But, there is no doubt these animals actually possess complex and in-depth communication skills and these are likely important tools to their survival and endurance.

 

Speaking of "endurance," there doesn't seem to be words to describe exactly how a crippled mallard like Chrissy survives (especially in winter) or even an "outside" duck like Dusky, the American Black Duck endures in a flock of mallards that is not his own.

 

But, somehow these two scrappy ducks do.

 

And perhaps that is truly the one word that so perfectly describes ducks of all kinds.

 

"Scrappy" indeed.

 

As I finally left the Meer last night with the usual "duck parade" following (including Dusky and Chrissy) I thought to myself that Chrissy seems to be a duck who is not only "scrappy" but seems to flourish in the cold.

 

I had never seen Chrissy so seemingly robust and confident as she was last night in otherwise, punishing weather.

 

And though feeling a little disappointed in not seeing Buster, Brianna and their goose gaggle last night, (who were most likely loafing in another part of the lake) I have long realized one thing:

 

Geese are not dependent upon humans for sustenance even in the worst of weather.

 

When Buster and his flock do come to greet me most nights, it is not out of any dire need for treats, but rather simple friendship, familiarity and gregariousness.

 

I know I will see them again -- probably tonight.

 

Winter's scrappy flowers never disappoint.   -- PCA

 

 

                                                              ********

 

 

 

For the Gals Today

(Photos:  1-- Brianna -- the ever faithful and patient mate to Buster?  2-- Dusky, American Black Duck.)

 

Winter has made a comeback.

 

Temperatures over the past few days have been seasonal.  But today they fell below normal  and the wind chill plunged this morning to near zero.

 

Likewise, the "spring-like" rowdy behavior of the Harlem Meer mallards during the warm spell earlier in the week was quickly replaced by the more reserved, "fuel up and conserve" behavior associated with the colder weather.

 

Over the past few nights, I could not get seeds on the ground fast enough for the seemingly famished mallards who practically tripped over themselves at my feet.

 

This kind of "desperation" makes it difficult to get food to some of the more vulnerable ducks I care about.

 

Brad, Piggly and Wiggly are not included in that statement as all three domestic ducks are wily and creative at getting to the food.  Brad takes from my hand as he has done for more than a year now while Wiggly settles at my feet and catches what Brad misses. Meanwhile, Piggly, as noted, is a master thief due to his quick darting and grab skills.

 

But, Dusky (the American Black Duck) and Chrissy, the lame mallard are the two ducks I try to make a point to get food to.

 

Dusky is a little smaller than the mallards and seems to lack their moxie and aggression.  Chrissy of course is compromised by her inability to walk normally and low status in the flock.

 

But, as much as one feels special sympathy for these two ducks, they are not lacking smarts and survival skills.

 

Though "different" both ducks hang with the resident flock of about 30 mallards at the Meer.  And although Chrissy particularly gets picked on by the aggressive drakes (probably due to perceived weakness) she apparently is able to weather the storms.

 

Last night, Chrissy pulled herself up on the embankment with vigor, confidence and determination.   I immediately placed an ample supply of seeds before her and attempted to give some to her by hand.

 

But, the mallards were there so fast like football tacklers, the diminutive Chrissy was quickly "buried under the pile."

 

I tried with my hands to gently push some of the mallard faces out of the way, but that was an exercise in futility.

 

I then tossed seeds in other directions hoping the mallards would spread out.  That worked to some extent, but Chrissy still had to scrap for whatever she could get.

 

But, despite all the craziness and "football-like" tactics, Chrissy emerged from the melee seemingly unscathed and hopefully with a reasonably full belly.

 

She then escaped to the water where I attempted to toss some stray treats directly to her.

 

But, Buster who was there with his gaggle of seven geese had other ideas. 

 

As I walked to the edge of the lake to toss some seeds to Chrissy in the water, Buster rudely pecked at the sleeve of my jacket indignantly.

 

"Look, I don't mind playing second fiddle to Brad, the Rouen duck, but damned if we're going to have to kowtow to some miserable little mallard!   Have you forgotten about US?"

 

Of course, I could never forget about Buster who is the first to loudly greet me with booming honks when I arrive to the Meer each night.

 

I filled my hand with black sunflower seeds which Buster gently swooped like a cotton ball running over my hand.

 

It is amazing how gentle Buster is with me while treating his own flock members as a drill sergeant treats newly enlisted plebes.

 

Although it was quite cold last night, I nevertheless stayed a few extra minutes to observe and try to figure out the relationship of Buster to the other members of his gaggle.

 

There is one goose among Buster's flock who I have noted a number of times seems to stand a few feet from me (with head held high) and quietly watch each night.

 

There is something particularly refined, dignified and feminine about this goose.

 

I am guessing her to be Buster's mate.

 

"Brianna" as I recently named her, occasionally walks towards me.  But, if I try to offer treats from my hand, she curves her neck demurely as if to say, politely, "No, thank you.  I prefer to eat from the ground."

 

This seems an odd pairing as Brianna is as seemingly different from Buster as night is to day.

 

As Buster is loud, brash, headstrong and decisive, Brianna is quiet, demure, reflective and observant.

 

Indeed, the only thing the two geese seem to have in common is pride in themselves and their flock.

 

But, I have never seen Brianna "throw her weight around" and attempt to bully or harass the other birds be they geese or ducks.

 

Indeed, the only way to differentiate Brianna from the rest of Buster's gaggle is her tendency to stand a few feet apart and quietly take in and observe.

 

She is like a proud mate (or mom) who despite the antics and roughousing of her partner has complete faith and support in his "wisdom" and ability to lead and protect.

 

Finally (and quickly) exhausted of treat last night, I gathered my dogs and began to make my way out of the Meer.

 

Sensing my departure even before I picked up the dog leashes, the ducks and geese left the embankment and prepared to follow in the water.

 

Although it is too soon to call them any kind of "pair" yet, Dusky and Chrissy were swimming within a few feet of each other, while as usual the Bradley Brigade led the parade.

 

Buster and his gaggle usually follow a little behind the ducks and I could swear Buster doesn't take his eyes off of me until my dogs and I are up the hill and well out of sight.

 

"Good night geesies!  Good night, Duckies!  Hunker down tonight.  Its gonna be a cold one!"

 

And so, as the temperatures once again tank below freezing for a little while, I once again worry a little about the more vulnerable and frail of the ducks I personally know.

 

But, it occurred to me last night while walking home that Chrissy and Dusky obviously made it through the early snow storm in October and a few rough patches over the winter. 

 

If Chrissy can be at the bottom of a football pile-up and still emerge with her dignity and head intact, she can probably make it through this, I thought confidently.

 

The migratory geese have apparently moved on despite the brief setback in weather and I trust our little football heroes and heroines will too, prevail.

 

Let's hear it for the gals today, including the ever-faithful Brianna and of course, the ever resilient Chrissy. -- PCA

 

 

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Movements and a New Alliance?

(Photos: 1-- "Dusky,' the American Black Duck at Harlem Meer  2-- Dusky next to and seemingly protecting Chrissy.) 

 

"Just passing through!"

 

Such might be the credo of the Canada geese flying over and through Central Park these days.

 

Lots of movement last night......

 

Some geese resting at the Reservoir.  Others flying over it.  I saw a few geese flying over the North Meadow.

 

And as I arrived to Harlem Meer, a skein of about a dozen geese were taking off and leaving it.

 

There were in fact, a number of geese at the Meer last night, though not as many as a few days ago.

 

There seems to be so much movement these days that the numbers of migratory geese either just passing through or briefly stopping for a day or two varies greatly from one day to the next.

 

For birders keeping counts, this must be either a very exciting time or a dizzying one!

 

Of course, some of our park waterfowl doesn't fly around very much.

 

I saw my usual troupes last night, including Buster and his gang of 7 geese, the Bradley Brigade (three domestic ducks), Chrissy, the lame mallard and Dusky, the American Black Duck.

 

Whoops......I realize I have not written of "Dusky" before!

 

I noticed Dusky a few months ago.

 

The black duck is obviously noticeable because of his very dark plumage and the dark shading on the webs of his orange feet.

 

I don't know for certain Dusky is a male, though am guessing so because of the brightly colored bill.  (Female Black American Ducks supposedly have dull, greenish bills.)   And I also don't know if Dusky is, in fact, a full American Black Duck or a hybrid.

 

But, over the past few months, I have seen Dusky a number of times, though not every night.

 

He showed up last night and oddly enough, seemed to be hanging with Chrissy!

 

Perhaps its because both ducks are so "different" from all the others (though for different reasons, obviously) there is a bit of an affinity between them?

 

Of course, one cannot speculate or judge anything based on only one night's observance.  But, throughout my fifteen minutes or so last night at the Meer, both Dusky and Chrissy were clearly together and he is the one duck who doesn't try to steal from or harass Chrissy. 

 

Moreover, when I left and the birds followed me in the water, Chrissy and Dusky were swimming together!

 

Of course if true that these two ducks are in the process of forming an alliance together, it would not be the first time, birds of similar plight (i.e. "loners") or breed "flocked together."  

 

The best example of that of course is the "Bradley Brigade" (Brad, Piggly and Wiggly) which only came together over the past few months and is rock solid now.

 

Another strange happening last night was that Chrissy, took seeds directly from my hand!

 

That is highly unusual for a mallard.

 

Indeed, the only duck who eats from my hand is Brad and it took many months for him to work up the trust or confidence to do that.

 

I cannot be sure of the reason for Chrissy attempting such "risky" action but it could be she figured that it might be the only real way for her to get food without losing it to the stronger, overpowering mallards.

 

Chrissy seems to "compensate" in smarts what she lacks in physical ability much the same way, Piggly learned to compensate for early mallard attacks by moving quickly and darting.

 

Piggly is still the fastest bird at the Meer and now uses that quickness and "darting" ability to actually grab food before the mallards or geese can get to it.

 

In fact, so "aggressive" is Piggly, he even takes butt shots at the geese, including Buster!  (And to think how "sorry" I used to feel for Piggly when he was first dropped off at the Meer and picked on by everyone, including, Brad!)

 

Piggly has truly "come a long way, baby!"

 

Well, I am hoping that despite her disabilities, Chrissy can come a long way too -- or at least find a friend.

 

Could Dusky be the one?

 

Only time will ultimately tell -- as it always does.

 

But, for the moment, to enjoy all the new movements in and over the park. 

 

The beautiful, haunting calls of the migratory Canada geese as they come and they go.

 

And the movement of a possible new alliance.  -- PCA

 

 

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Moving On -- Migrating Geese and a Fan-Tailed Duck!

(Photos -- 1--Chrissy last night, squatting on land.  2-- Chrissy in water. -- Do the fan-tailed feathers aid her in swimming?  3-- Buster, keeping everyone in line.)

 

The first thing noticed when entering Central Park last night and walking along the Reservoir was the silence.

 

The melodic and striking colophony of goose honks that had enveloped the previous two nights was notably absent.

 

Nor, could I make out in the distance, dozens of goose silhouettes resting on the water.

 

Apparently, the first few waves of migratory geese passing through NYC had moved on.

 

It was therefore not surprising when arriving to Harlem Meer to first find silence on the lake.

 

From a distance, I could see that most of the dozens of geese who had settled and rested on the Meer the previous night were gone.

 

Apparently, all the "conversations" the previous evening were active travel plans on where the geese would fly the next day.  -- Either that, or the geese heeded the warnings of Buster that any thoughts of staying at the Meer was a mistake as truly no place in New York City is  "safe" for geese in the spring and summer.

 

But, the silence was soon punctuated by loud "honks" emanating from the east side of the lake!

 

"Hi there!   Here we are!"

 

Buster, apparently having spotted me early, took off with his rag-tag gaggle, zooming and honking wildlily across the lake! 

 

I felt honored to be the recipient of such enthusiastic greeting!

 

Buster and crew flew about a dozen feet off the water and quickly arrived to join the Bradley Brigade and the other ducks rushing to meet me at the south embankment.

 

Buster was one of the first birds on the grass.

 

He walked up to me like the most perfect gentleman with a low, greeting honk.

 

"We're here early tonight!  Does that not entitle us to first digs?"

 

Laughing, I offered Buster some choice sunflower seeds from my hand which he qently scooped up.

 

But, then Brad was at my feet, along with his two charges, Piggly and Wiggly.

 

"No, I did not forget about you, Brad......"

 

The mallards were in rare form last night.

 

One might have thought it was a warm night in April from the mallard shenanigans, "bar room brawls" and general scrappiness.

 

Everywhere I looked, mallards were in seeming tossels with each other, either verbally or physically.

 

"Hey, hey, what's with you guys tonight?   Cool it!"

 

Looking around, I finally saw Chrissy, the little crippled mallard hoisting herself bravely up on the embankment with effort.

 

Trying to spare her the pain of hobbling on the grass, I immediately put some seeds in front of Chrissy as she plopped down.   Within seconds the mallards were there trying to steal and I attempted with hand to try and hold a few back as much as possible.

 

But, it was mostly a futile gesture.

 

Chrissy grabbed what she could and then hobbled away from the seeming mallard avalanche.   I snapped a quick photo.

 

But, just then, one of the police patrol jeeps drove by and all the ducks bolted for the water --including Chrissy.

 

Buster however remained on the embankment, seemingly undeterred.  Very few things appear to freak Buster out.   My guess is that he is a long time "resident goose" of Harlem Meer and at this point, is used to everything.   A couple of his gaggle nevertheless retreated for the water.    Buster then signaled to them that it was OK for them to return.

 

Most of the ducks also returned on the embankment -- except Chrissy.

 

The effort of pulling herself on the embankment apparently something she can only manage once a night, Chrissy positioned herself near the edge of the lake and looked at me directly, beseeching treat.

 

It was then I noticed Chrissy is actually distinguishable from other female mallards because of the fan-like appearance of her tail feathers.  Usually mallard tail feathers end in a point. But in Chrissy they actually splay out a little.  It seems Chrissy actually uses her tail feathers to help propel her in the water along with her compromised feet.   Again, I snapped a  photo.

 

I laid out some seeds on the edge of the embankment for Chrissy to grab.   As she did, a drake tried to steal some and to my surprise, Chrissy actually defended herself and chased him off!

 

Chrissy may be disabled -- especially when on land, but she is not without moxie and defense!

 

"You go girl!  Good for you!"

 

Meanwhile, I noticed a family of four other geese had arrived on the embankment and stood about 20 feet from Buster and his clan.

 

When a couple of them curiously attempted to move closer to me, Buster lowered his head aggressively and immediately warded them back.

 

"Hey, you guys!  Keep your distance!"

 

The four geese quietly retreated back.

 

I actually counted eight geese among Buster and his group last night.

 

I am not sure how the extra goose managed its way into Buster's gaggle without losing half its feathers.  In fact, I am not sure why any goose would even want to join up with Buster!  (Then again, Loner did.)

 

But, apparently Buster is not all that loath about occasionally accepting new geese -- as long as they can put up with his rules and tirades.

 

Finally exhausted of seed, it was time for me to gather my dogs and move on.

 

And as usual, Brad summoned Piggly and Wiggly and Buster gathered his troupe.

 

It was then I noticed the bright, full moon in the sky.

 

Do the migrating birds fly according the fullness of the moon I wondered?

 

Did the full moon help explain some of the extra feistiness and scrappiness of the ducks last night?  Or, were they simply preparing for the onset of spring and the territorial and pairing disputes that come with it?

 

As I walked along the path leading to the exit of the Meer, the geese and ducks followed, like a parade in the water.

 

But, the most curious thing was that in front of the Bradly Brigade and even Buster and his rag-tag gaggle was a little brown female mallard with fanned out tail feathers. 

 

And alongside Chrissy was a drake.  -- PCA

 

 

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