The Border Collie Gave the Ducklings His Famous Stare. They Looked Outside.
Nose level with the sill, a black and white Border Collie is staring at a staggered row of ducklings who have marched up the dusty windowsill to look outside. The little yellow birds are bunched up in a tilted line, each peering toward the green, rain-spotted garden through the glass. The collie's amber eyes follow them with total attention. A pale blue blanket peeks out of the bottom corner of the picture.
Border Collies are famous for their intense stare, called the eye, which they use to control livestock without ever touching them. It is a natural herding trait, and many Border Collies will give the same look to anything that moves, from sheep to ducklings to a rolling ball. They need plenty of exercise and mental work, such as puzzle toys and training games, to be happy. Baby ducklings are delicate, so a staring dog should never be left alone with them. The best approach is to keep the dog calm and reward relaxed behavior. Ask your vet if you need help with introductions.
The collie's pose says he is on duty, and the ducklings have no idea they are being managed. They just want to see the garden. The window is cool, the light is soft, and everyone in this tiny audience leans toward the glass. At least one of them, the one with the pointed nose, is quietly sure that every duckling is exactly where it should be.
