Ducks on the river in winter: The silent guardians of the cold world

Winter is the time when nature freezes, wrapped in a blanket of snow. Rivers are frozen, trees are covered with frost, and the usual hustle and bustle of life is replaced by peace and quiet. It would seem that in such a realm of cold and cold there is no place for something alive, mobile. But this is not the case. Even in the most severe frosts, ducks can be seen on the river – amazing creatures that bravely endure winter difficulties, adding a touch of life and color to the frozen landscape.

When the river is not yet completely covered with ice, or when the ice has ruptures, the ducks remain faithful to their aquatic possessions. They are in no hurry to leave their native places, even when the cold stings their cheeks and the wind ruffles their feathers. Instead, they glide with amazing grace through the dark waters, creating quiet circles on the surface. Their bright feathers – the plumage of drakes – stand out against the background of the gray sky and white snow, like precious stones embedded in a cold landscape. Female ducks, with their more modest but no less beautiful brown plumage, look like living lumps warming a gloomy winter day with their presence.

The ducks' life on the river in winter is a constant search. On days when the reservoir is frozen, their world narrows down to small sagebrush – areas of free water where they can find food. These polynyas become real oases of life, where ducks gather, communicate, and feed. Their movements become more measured, but no less purposeful. They dive, searching in the cold depths for aquatic plants, small invertebrates – everything that can support their strength during this difficult period.

Sometimes, when the polynya is large enough, you can observe a whole flock of ducks. They stick together as if they have entered into an unspoken pact of mutual assistance. Drakes, which are larger and brighter, often occupy more advantageous positions, observing their surroundings, while female ducks plunge headlong into the search for food. Their necks, stretched out of the water, create bizarre patterns against the ice.

But the winter river is not just about finding food. This is both a time of rest and, oddly enough, a time of communication. Ducks, even when alone, do not lose their natural sociality. Sometimes you can hear their quiet chatter, soft quacks that break the winter silence. It's their way of keeping in touch, warning of danger, or just sharing their humble discoveries.

On frosty days, when the sun peeks out from behind the clouds, the ducks are happy to bask on the ice, close to the water. Their bodies, covered with thick, waterproof down, allow them to tolerate low temperatures. They carefully spread their wings, as if trying to catch the last rays of warmth, and look quite happy with their lot. In these moments, they seem to be the epitome of resilience and adaptability, reminding us that life always finds ways to exist, even in the harshest conditions.

Ducks on the river in winter are not just birds, they are the silent guardians of the cold world. With their presence, they remind us of the continuity of life, the power of nature, and the beauty that can hide even in the most unexpected places. Watching them, we learn to appreciate every moment, every glimmer of warmth, every opportunity to live and enjoy. And although they may seem so ordinary, ducks acquire a special charm in the winter landscape, becoming a symbol of hope and joie de vivre in the realm of snow and ice.