The Mandarin Duck took the snow in stride this afternoon on Central Park’s Pond.  Although the weather had deteriorated when I arrived, it was nice not to have to deal with the duck’s crazy fans.  They’ve trashed the landscaping on the east shore of The Pond.  They’re also feeding the ducks (and rats) bread and pretzels which are unhealthy for the ducks and is prohibited by the Parks Department.

The area around where the Mandarin Duck is residing is filled with wonderful wildlife.  Mallards, Wood Ducks, Canada Geese, American Coots, Red-tailed Hawks, American Kestrels, and Raccoons are always there in the winter, with many more birds and animals in the summer.  Nearby are a set of trees in Grand Army Plaza where hundreds of birds come to roost each evening.  The Hallett Nature Sanctuary, which is now open year round, is a wonderful place to enjoy nature and is on the west shore of the Pond. The sanctuary has hosted at least two coyotes in years past.

There is so much more to see at The Pond than just one duck.  It’s sad to see people come into the park, motivated by their FOMO (fear of missing out) who stay at a frenetic NYC pace, rather than slowing down and enjoy a park that was designed specifically to be a restorative place for city dwellers.

American Woodcocks are one of the parks strangest, but wonderful birds.  Adapted to eating insects living underground, the bird has a long beak and a wonderful “dance” to help find the insects.  The also are one of the hardest birds to find in the park.  They can sit still for hours and blend in with the leaf litter.

Turtle Pond had a nice selection of ducks today, including the escaped Mandarin Duck which has been in the news.

A Mandarin Duck has been on The Pond for a few days in Central Park.  It’s unclear from where it’s escaped, but it could be from the Central Park Zoo.  It’s banded and looks healthy.  The last time I can remember one in the park was in 2009 on Turtle Pond.

Central Park continues to have a good number of Ruby-throated Hummingbirds…