duckling growth

the ducklings are just a few days shy of being 4 weeks old and they've changed considerably from the round little fluffballs they were when they hatched.  the black duckling is quite a bit smaller than the other two but i think it started out a bit smaller and it's also far more active than the others so may be burning energy running around instead of putting it all into growth.  they all look to be quite healthy and harpo is still doing a great job caring for them.
here's a look at how they've been growing...
 

black duckling on day one, still a bit wet from the hatch

fluffy, safe, and warm 2-3 days after hatch

5 days old exploring a bit but staying close to each other and to mama

1 week old and practicing good runner duck posture

not quite as tall as mama

at 2 weeks they've lost much of their roundness...necks and bills noticeably lengthened

by 3 weeks old body and head shape look a lot like the adults and they are much more aware of their surroundings...keeping an eye on a passing turkey vulture

about 3 1/2 weeks (2 days ago) a few tail feathers starting to emerge

a few hours ago

can't wait to see how they look in the morning.