Black Bellied Whistling Ducks Protect Ducklings from Dangers on the Lake

Black-bellied whistling ducks protect ducklings from dangers on Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland, Florida. The dangers come from all directions for this family including an unexpected downpour, an agitated, territorial purple gallinule parent, a lurking great blue heron, and other black-bellied whistling ducks vying for the same territory. Fortunately, all 10 ducklings were kept safe by watchful parents and enjoyed time eating, preening, swimming, and even playing. Before I left, one parent contained all the ducklings under its wings...hard to believe it was possible!