My mother was in Prospect Heights, IL taking care of my Gramma and was unable to take her cats with her. Instead she befriend the naborhood ducks in the backyard. Every day they would be down by the creek waiting for her to appear. They always had a sentinel duck at the crest of the hill waiting for her to appear. When she did they would come waddling down single file, mostly walking but at times flying. They do not land well in the snow. The best time of year is the spring when they march their babies up to show them where the food was. The best show on earth. The picture has been digital enhanced to give it a more painted look. Satialee 2006