A family of ducks temporarily took up residence at Saanich Municipal Hall, on Southern Vancouver Island, last week before heading to the nearby Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary.
According to staff, the duck duo has been living on the property, outside Victoria, for several years and recently added 11 newly-hatched members to their family.
The ducklings often hatch on the property outside district offices before making their way down to the nature sanctuary across the parking lot behind, explained Jason Jones, community programmer for Saanich. While staff anticipate the annual sighting of little fluffy ducklings, there were far more than usual this spring.
The family spent some time in the koi pond outside the hall then made their pilgrimage to the lake on May 3. Members of the district’s horticulture team spotted the family crossing the parking lot and made sure the whole crew got into the nature sanctuary safely.
Did you know that there is a family of ducks who live at the Hall? Mom and dad have lived here for years and recently had babies!
There were 11 ducklings and our fantastic horticulture team made sure they made it through the parking lot and safely on their way to Swan lake. pic.twitter.com/i0fv1396H9
— District of Saanich (@saanich) May 3, 2021
Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary is an accessible green space in an urban landscape and includes a wetland around Swan Lake and a rocky, Garry oak-forest on top of Christmas Hill. Both habitats are home to an array of rare and threatened native plants and wild animals.
The Swan Lake Loop trail is an easy walk and the floating boardwalk puts you right in the centre of this significant wetland area.
For a little more exertion, the trails of Christmas Hill offer more of a challenge, with the summit sitting at 109 meters above sea level with a spectacular view of the city. In the spring, a vast carpet of wildflowers surrounds you as you venture past the endangered Garry oak meadow.
The Swan Lake Nature House is an interpretive information centre where you’ll “meet” the local wildlife, visit the bee hive, or read a book, this learning hub will engage your senses as you connect with the fascinating ecosystems found at Swan Lake.
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