I previously posted a photo (on October 27) of the ponds that lie at the center of NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston. Needless to say, they are home to many animals. There is a permanent population of Mallard and Muscovy ducks, as well as visiting Black Bellied Whistler ducks at times. The permanent ducks are well adjusted to being around people. A little feeding by the people here and there probably encourages this.
As we walk from building to building for meetings, we really enjoy them (especially the babies in the spring). Note that the Muscovy duck in the photo below has built herself a nest in a planter outside our office building. Muscovy's are quite profilic; she may hatch up to 17 babies--but infant mortality rates are very high. Predators visit the ponds also, including hawks, osprey, coyotes, and owls.
The ponds are also home to Koi--some are really large and colorful, probably 18 inches long. And then there are the turtles--red eared sliders. Native to Texas, these turtles can often be seen around lakes and bayous in the area. Some of our NASA turtles get quite large, say 8-10" across. A little wildlife viewing makes for an interesting break or lunch when at work.
No comments:
Post a Comment