09/08/2026
A Lesson in Trust
Sometimes it is the tiniest of wildlife that brings the biggest smile. Earlier this summer I was walking along a stream photographing songbirds and flowers when I noticed a mother mallard and her little ones floating along with the current, feeding in the shallow pools. She seemed cautious of me, so I kept my distance, never wanting to disturb or stress a mother with her young.
After a few hours in the area and seeing the family every so often, I began making my way back to the truck. As I headed upstream, I noticed the family was also moving in that direction. I sat down in a shaded area to rest and after about ten minutes, they seemed to become comfortable with me sharing their habitat, realizing I was no threat.
Then Mom led the way across a small pond, walked onto the bank beside me and began feeding on the fresh grasses. The little ones climbed onto a stone, seemingly curious about what I was all about.
Moments like this are what make being in nature so special. It is not always wildlife encounters with wolves, grizzlies or cougars that stay with you. Sometimes it is simply being trusted and accepted into a small moment in the lives of a mother and her young.
