Nature Notes: Unveiling the Secret Duck Ponds of Mohave County

A nostalgic journey into youth unfolded recently as I revisited an old hobby that sparked my passion for photography. At the age of 13, my stepdad introduced me to his Sears SLR camera, marking my first venture beyond the confines of simple point-and-shoot devices. This experience ignited a fascination with the intricacies of photography, from f-stops to aperture settings.

The quest for a proper setting led us to our local duck pond, a reliable spot for wildlife photography. That outing became a cherished memory. Capturing images of various waterfowl, such as mallards and pintails, enriched my understanding of both nature and the photographic process.

Many years later, the allure of duck ponds remains. Though living in the desert limits access to such landscapes, Mohave County offers its own wildlife treasures. The Colorado River hosts an array of birds, making it a prime location for enthusiasts. Even urban settings, like Kingman, can surprise with the presence of ducks and geese.

During a recent assignment at the Cerbat Cliffs Golf Course, I observed a flock of Canada geese alongside several mallards, relaxing at a waterhole. The lush lawns attracted these creatures, along with some resident turtles. Canada geese (Branta canadensis) thrive in various environments and have become notable for their adaptability to human habitats.

These birds primarily graze on grass but can shift their diet, occasionally munching on small fish or insects. Their substantial population has led to them being perceived as pests in some locales, often due to noise and aggressive behavior when protecting their young. Meanwhile, they remain a popular choice among migratory game birds, regulated by hunting seasons. Observing them through a lens, I embraced the delight of capturing natural moments without intruding on their space, rekindling that youthful excitement for photography.