I've done a remarkable job (I thought) of keeping my Runners separated from my Magpies during the breeding season. Their pens are clear across the yard from each other and, though I let them take turns free-ranging, I don't remember anyone breeching the others' pens. So, I was absolutely baffled this morning when there were four ducklings under one of my blue Runners -- a black, a blue, a silver AND A MAGPIE?! And it's markings are so definite there's no mistaking it. I think I have a vague recollection of picking up an egg just outside the Runner's pen, thinking a rat or something must have tried to steal it, and putting it back in the nest -- but this was when they were already sitting on their eggs so I'm amazed it would be one of the first to hatch. However, that's my ONLY possible explanation (and I'm sticking to it). It will be interesting to see what happens in the next few days. There seem to be no new pips, so I may break down and candle a few of the remaining ten or so eggs this afternoon. I have two nests going, a Blue Runner on one and a Saxony Runner on the other, and I think the Saxony got started a day or two after my Blue.
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