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mallard nesting in garden #868665

Asked May 16, 2024, 8:54 AM EDT

We have a Mallard Duck nesting in our front yard.  We are no where near water and have a dangerous 10 lane road five houses from us (M-59).  She has no where to walk the babies when they hatch.  What do we do to protect this mom and her ducklings?  We just found the nest, scared her twice but she is back on the nest today. We learned that we can observe her without disturbing her by looking out our basement window.  

Macomb County Michigan

Expert Response

It is best to leave her be and let the eggs hatch. Sometimes human scent can scare off wildlife, so be sure not to touch her nest. My recommendation would be to contact a wildlife rehabilitation center or duck rescue in your area. They will have better advice for you and may even choose to come get them once they have hatched to relocate to a safer area.

Kayla Mitchell Replied May 20, 2024, 12:40 PM EDT
Thank you Kayla!  I've been trying to find a rescue or rehab.  Do you have any leads for Macomb County?
On Mon, May 20, 2024 at 12:40 PM Extension Foundation <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied May 20, 2024, 1:31 PM EDT
Good evening. If you still need assistance from Kayla, here is her direct contact information. :

https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/kayla-mitchell  

best wishes,
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