Moscovy Ducks

If you don't live in Florida, you've probably never seen a moscovy duck. You're not missing much. As far as ducks go, people consider them the bottom-of-the-barrel, run-of-the-mill, common, boring duck. Personally, I think they're cute and have character. They always have these tumor-like growths all over their face. It's a genetic thing, not harmful to the duck at all. It's just that extra skin grows on their face. Do a google search, you'll see what I'm talking about. But I like them.

The other day David and I went to Moe's for lunch. It's a southwestern grill type of joint but they have the BEST bean/tofu burritos I've EVER had. Get one. You'll love it. Anyway, we were sitting down eating when I noticed this group of ducks outside. It was a momma duck and 9 youngsters (not babies - slightly older). They knew that when you went IN the door that you had no food, but they also knew that when you came OUT the door ... food was usually involved. So they waited outside to ambush anyone leaving and what an ambush it was. Several people were chased down the sidewalk when they refused to share their doggy bags. The ducks tried to enter the restaurant twice - much to everyone's amusement. David and I decided to help the ducks so we ordered a basket of corn chips and crunched them up into bite-sized pieces. After we'd finished eating we fed the ducks out by the nearby canal. They were so tame they practically sat in our laps! I brought spinach over for them too (we'd come from the farmer's market) but they only wanted the corn chips. I guess they like carbs.

There is also a group of ducks near our apartment that I've been feeding. Ducks seem to suddenly be very involved in my life. I'll have to research what they mean as an animal messenger/totem.

In other news, I have joined a rescue organization called Save a Death Row Dog. I'm not "official" yet but I seem to have a such a strong attachment to the group already. They rescue dogs that still have great potential but are scheduled to be put to sleep (usually due to lack of space in the shelters). Please, if you have $5 or even $10 to spare, donate to this great group. There are over 40 dogs for adoption currently. The adoption price ($100) allows the group to rescue 2 MORE dogs! Each time a dog is adopted, two more get a chance. They're increasing their rescue numbers exponentially. I think it's wonderful. Just search for "Save a Death Row Dog" and all of their various websites should come up. I am going to the ranch tomorrow to help clean kennels and photograph the dogs for posting online. I'll let you know what it's like when I get back. :3