Builders deny that a wild duck’s nest slowed work on the construction of the A1 motorway near the Silesian locality of Żory, southern Poland.

The construction company has also assured that there is no danger to the nest or hatchlings.

The construction manager informed that the duck’s nest was discovered about 100 metres from works on a new bridge. Luckily, the nest is out of the way of heavy equipment.  It was secured with proper care and is under observation.

Wild ducks are legally protected in Poland for their entire nesting season, formally until August 15.  The nest which has stalled motorway builders near Żory has 10 eggs. When these hatch the birds are to be transferred to a safer home: a neighbouring pond or a local wild animal rescue shelter.

A specialized company has been employed by the motorway builders to monitor the natural environment around the construction site. So far they have been also involved in keeping frogs and toads migrating to spawning ponds, out of the path of vehicles. (ek)