Reader’s Question:

Observation at Shiroyama Park

There was a family of ducks that I always saw while walking at Shiroyama Park, but I haven’t seen them at all since last month.

Do Ducks Not Move in Summer?

Is it true
that ducks do not behave actively during the summer?

Observations at Shiroyama Park: Where Did All the Ducks Go?

So, here I am, sitting at my favorite spot in Shiroyama Park, sipping on a matcha latte from a nearby café, and just taking in the whole vibe of this peaceful oasis. Honestly, if you’ve never been to Shiroyama Park in Japan, you’re missing out! It’s this fantastic blend of lush greenery, stunning views of the surrounding area, and a hint of tranquility that just makes your soul sigh in relief. But something has been bothering me lately—something that’s got me scratching my head like a confused duck.

The Mystery of the Missing Ducks

You know how you can get attached to the little quirks of a place? For me, it was a charming family of ducks that I’d spot waddling around the park almost every time I visited. They were like my own little feathered friends, going about their business, quacking merrily, and sometimes even engaging in the cutest little duck fights over crumbs. But then, out of the blue, they vanished. Like poof! Gone! I thought, “Maybe they’re just on vacation?” But then I started to wonder—do ducks really take summer vacations? Or are they simply less active?

Do Ducks Not Move in Summer?

Okay, so here’s the thing. After some casual Googling (you know, the kind where you start off looking for one thing and end up down a rabbit hole of duck-related trivia), I learned that ducks are actually quite active in summer. They’re not the lazy lounge lizards we sometimes imagine them to be, basking in the sun with a cocktail in their wings. Instead, summer is typically a time of plenty for these little guys—ample food, warmer weather, and a whole lot of water to splash around in. So why was I missing my duck buddies?

The Seasonal Changes

During my research, I discovered that many species of ducks migrate. Yes, migrate! It’s like they have their own travel plans. Some ducks leave for colder climates as summer wanes, while others might relocate to find better feeding grounds. So here’s a thought: my little park pals might have taken off to find a new pond or just decided they needed some adventure away from Shiroyama Park. I mean, who wouldn’t want to explore the world when you have wings?

But let me tell you, my heartbreak was real. I’ve spent many afternoons watching those ducks chase after each other, and without them, the park felt a little emptier. I can’t believe I had become so attached to a bunch of quacking birds, but hey, that’s just how it goes sometimes, right? It’s those little things that make a place feel like home.

Finding Joy in the Other Wildlife

While I was sulking over the absence of the ducks, I decided to shift my focus. I mean, Shiroyama Park isn’t just about the ducks, right? I started exploring other parts of the park and guess what? There is so much more to see! I found adorable little squirrels darting around, chubby chipmunks, and even a couple of rabbits nibbling on the grass. And let me tell you, watching a rabbit nibble is surprisingly soothing. It’s like, “Take your time, buddy, enjoy that snack!”

The Beauty of Adaptation

As I sat on a bench, soaking in the vibrant colors of summer, it struck me that nature has a way of adapting, just like us. We all go through changes, whether it’s a new job, a new relationship, or simply a new adventure in an unfamiliar place. The park, with or without the ducks, was still beautiful. Flowers were in full bloom, the trees were alive with vibrant green leaves, and the warm sun cast a golden glow on everything it touched. It was a gentle reminder that even if one part of your world changes, there’s always something else to appreciate.

Reconnecting with Nature

Feeling nostalgic but also grateful for my moments in the park, I decided to reconnect with nature and even pack a little picnic. I laid out my blanket, brought some rice balls and fresh fruit, and just enjoyed the moment. There’s something incredibly grounding about eating outdoors, surrounded by the sounds of nature. I noticed families enjoying the park, kids laughing, and people walking their dogs, and it made me feel part of something larger, connected by this shared love for nature.

What to Do if You’re Missing the Ducks

If you ever find yourself in Shiroyama Park and feel a little lost without the ducks, fear not! There are plenty of other activities to enjoy. You could rent a bike and explore the paths winding through the park, visit a nearby shrine, or even grab a book from the library in the park and lose yourself in a story for a few hours. And who knows? You might just stumble upon the ducks again if you visit at a different time of day! I’m still holding out hope for their return.

Lessons Learned

So, what’s the takeaway from my little duck dilemma? Sometimes, things change, and that’s okay. Life has a way of surprising us, whether it’s the absence of a family of ducks or the arrival of new wildlife to appreciate. Embrace the changes and look around; you might find new treasures waiting to be discovered. Each visit to a place can offer a fresh perspective, and you never know what new experiences might be waiting just around the corner.

And who knows, maybe one day I’ll be sitting at Shiroyama Park, sipping on my matcha latte, and a familiar quack will catch my attention. I’ll look up to see my duck family waddling back to their favorite spot, and I’ll be there, arms wide open, ready to welcome them home. Until then, I’m grateful for all the little moments that make Shiroyama Park feel like my own secret sanctuary.

Final Thoughts

So, whether you’re a nature lover, a duck aficionado, or just someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life, Shiroyama Park is worth a visit. And if you do go, keep an eye out for those elusive ducks. Who knows? They might just be waiting for you to return too. Happy exploring!