The Summer 2025 Secrest newsletter reported the sighting of the rare, Black-Bellied Whistling Duck, BBWD, on a pond near Secrest Arboretum. To the delight of many, the ducks returned this spring and up to 9 adults and 14-15 hatchlings were observed. The pair and hatchlings disappeared 2 days later. Unfortunately, the farm crew had mowed the grass up to the edge of the pond, eliminating cover and nesting protection. As a result, the remaining ducks moved to the Barnes Preserve nearby. Since then, another pair has had 18 ducklings, and a second pair hatched another clutch. There is concern about sufficient food for the adults and the ducklings which feed on duckweed. The good news is that action has been taken to preserve their habitat in the future. The ducks continue to be monitored, and more updates will be reported next spring when they hopefully return. Special thanks to Master Gardener Brenda Meese for her pictures and monitoring efforts on the BBWD.
–Sue Cook, Master Gardener Volunteer