Frank and Marion Brought Grain for the Ducks. Cocoa Got Closer Than Anyone Expected.
Autumn leaves cover the grass around the little neighborhood pond, and Frank and Marion have bundled up in coats over their cream cable-knit sweaters for a duck-feeding stroll. Frank, in a brown corduroy jacket, lets a sprinkle of grain fall from his fingers, while Marion, in a tan coat, scatters her handful with a delighted smile. A few mallards and a brown hen paddle closer through the ripples. Cocoa stands at the very edge of the water in the foreground, her curly chocolate head bent low and her nose almost touching the surface as she watches the ducks with intense curiosity. A chain-link fence, a wooden gate, and trash bins sit along the path behind them.
Feeding ducks is a classic outing, but the food matters. Bread fills ducks up without giving them much nutrition, and soggy leftovers can pollute the water. Cracked corn, oats, birdseed, or chopped greens are better choices, offered in small amounts. Some parks ask visitors not to feed wildlife at all, so it is worth checking posted rules. With a dog along, a leash is the safest choice, since even a calm dog may lunge at a duck taking off. Pond water can contain bacteria, parasites, or harmful algae, especially in warm weather, so dogs should not drink it or swim in water that looks green or scummy. Bringing fresh water from home is easy and safer.
The ducks are getting their snack, Frank and Marion are enjoying the crisp fall air, and Cocoa is studying the scene like a very serious naturalist. It is a lovely way to spend an afternoon.
