Third of four posting for the Merganser Series: (Continued from yesterday)

The current five images were taken about two weeks after those of the previous postings. The young Mergansers have grown a lot in the two weeks, thanks to the abundance of fish in our lake (I hope they left some). Presently, the brood(s) of some 30 young accompanied again by THE BOSS, arrived at our shore and dock without much fanfare. They arrived late afternoon and simply took their time swimming, grooming and frolicking about, perhaps looking for a dock on which to lounge. In the above image THE BOSS is standing on my neighbours dock keeping an eye on her charges. She looks tough and appears ready to take on all comers.


Part of the group of about 30 young. No fighting and chasing this time - just one happy relaxed family.


One of the young just swimming along. Note, they are almost adult size.


An other young, doing some grooming.


More grooming. Can't neglect the underbelly.
**************************
To be Continued.