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An elderly Black grandma holds out seed to mallard ducks on a pond while a fluffy orange cat sits on the bank beside her. 2 / 30

Grandma Fed the Ducks While a Fluffy Orange Cat Sat Inches From the Water

AI imageorange catduckspark pond

The pond at the edge of the park is still and gray-green, and a handful of mallards has paddled up to the muddy bank. Odessa leans out over the water in a soft green fleece, a pair of glasses hanging on a chain around her neck, her open palm full of seed. A drake with a glossy green head and several brown hens bob in close, and one has already ventured onto a mossy rock for a better angle. Perched on the bank right at Odessa's elbow is Marmalade, his long orange fur fluffed up against the cool air. He is not chasing anything. He sits perfectly upright, eyes half lidded, watching the ducks with an air of calm, slightly judgmental interest.

Cats are natural hunters, and even well-fed house cats keep a strong instinct to stalk birds. That is why many wildlife groups encourage keeping cats indoors or supervised outdoors, using a harness, leash, or enclosed catio. Outdoor time on a leash can be enriching for a cat that enjoys it, but it should always be at the cat's pace. When feeding ducks, skip the bread; better choices include cracked corn, oats, birdseed, or chopped greens in small amounts. Check local rules first, since some parks discourage feeding wildlife altogether to keep birds healthy and waterways clean.

Marmalade seems content to keep his paws dry and his opinions to himself today. The ducks get their breakfast, Odessa gets her quiet morning by the water, and one very fluffy cat gets the satisfaction of supervising everyone.

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