Ducking

Day #83 - Saturday, April 16, 2022

Ducking

I came home from an almost two week trip abroad to find our pool looking unappealing to even put my feet in.  

We don't generally swim in it until late spring as it's not heated. Living in Southern California, one might assume the  inground pool might get year round use.  

However we live in the San Fernando Valley. Our temperatures fluctuate 10 to 20 degrees higher than Los Angeles in the summer and 10 to 20 degrees lower than “over the hill” in the winter.

I waited for our pool guy, Larry, to arrive on his regular Thursday visit to discuss.  He didn't make it until today because he was also on vacation with his family.  

Our pool was even worse with green algae lining the bottom.  Leland and Larry discussed what could be causing this without clear resolution. Larry mentioned he might have to show up twice a week to regulate our pool.  This was an unsatisfying prospect for all involved.

And then Leland mentioned our ducks. A pair arrive in Spring and Fall when they're on their way North or South depending on the season.  They don't stay long, but according to Larry their presence causes havoc on the pool’s chemistry.

We wouldn't have ever connected the two if we weren't aware of the duck's seasonal visits.  And now we have a choice, deal with extra pool chemicals and maintenance when they're here, or getting a floating alligator to keep the ducks away.

Have you been surprised at the side effects of your living on a bird migration path?