Concerning Dummy Ducks

We took in a walk this evening on one of our fair greenways, one that circles a pond that is a favorite haunt of summer ducks, ones I have come to call "dummy ducks." Not that they're stupid: more that some ancestors lost the true mallard qualities and stopped migrating. Cities across the country have great populations of "dummies" including various geese, swans, and duck hybrids. I grind my teeth as people throw these sad creatures pieces of "Marvel" Bread, encouraging them away from more normal habits, such as dabbling on aquatic vegetation. Sad stuff all around. However, soon, we'll see some genuine, wild ducks and appreciate what was once real nature. Can't wait!