We saw this little family of Merganser ducks while floating a river. Because rivers are often flowing quickly the babies can become separated from their mom and siblings. Sad but not the end of the story. Merganser moms will pick up any floating orphans and claim them for their own. They sometimes end up with quite a large flock!
Well captured -- and interesting to read about their behavior. We see flocks of dozens together on Lake Michigan, and had thought it was a series of combined families (or babysitting sharing!).
Wonderful capture!
Thanks for providing the information about waifs and strays
Good to know they get looked after in the event of separation
:)