Six wood ducklings born recently at Shedd Aquarium are spending their first days imprinting on their mother, a critical developmental step that bonds the birds with their mom.
The first-time mother is constantly watching over the young birds and displaying very protective behaviors, as she would be in the wild, according to the Shedd.
After imprinting, the ducklings will follow their mother around for safety and food. As they get older and grow in size, the ducks will become more independent and explore the habitat on their own.
Wood ducks are native to the Great Lakes region, and their arrival in the area each year is a sign of the changing seasons, according to the Shedd.
Guests can visit the ducklings and their mother at the aquarium’s “At Home on the Great Lakes” exhibit.
Below, more photos of the ducklings and their mom.
Contact Alex Ruppenthal: @arupp | [email protected] | (773) 509-5623
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