Expert: Roger Lederer - 3/9/2010

Question
I live in Dallas, Texas.  My brother has a pool and for several years ducks (two) have appeared in his pool in the spring and stay for about two months. They came back yesterday (March 8).  We love them.  Are they the same ducks every year?  Do they have babies here? Where do you think they go when they leave and will how long will they live?  When they die, will their offspring come here?  Can we feed them?  They are a joy in our spring.  Thank you - Pam Germany

Answer
Well, these are hard questions to answer as I can't see the ducks and don't know what species they are or anything else about them. First, they could be the same ducks every year, but I don't know for sure. Do they have babies here? I have no idea - are they a pair? Have you seen babies. I don't know where they go - probably north. Will their offspring come here? Maybe, if any are hatched there. Can you feed them? Please don't. They will become dependent on your food and then have a difficult time getting natural food which is much better for them. They are doing just fine, it seems, without additional food. Glad they give you enjoyment,