She sits silently in the grass, huddled atop a dozen cream-colored eggs. Not far away, the keen nose of a female red fox sniffs the wind to find a meal for a litter of hungry pups. A crow caws. Skunks begin to prowl. Raccoons are on the march. And here sits our lonely hen mallard, hoping that these patrolling predators won’t eat her eggs, or worse, kill her. In the Spring Issue of Delta Waterfowl magazine, discover the many perils faced by nesting ducks — dangers that kill about 25 percent of adult mallard hens every spring.

With snow-goose conservation seasons in full swing, Jack Hirt explores an interesting question: What compels some hunters to pursue snow geese over all other birds — hard work and setbacks be darned? And award-winning photographer Gary Kramer presents a stunning photo essay celebrating the spectacle that is a massive, swirling flock of white geese.

Duck season is over, but it’s never too soon to start adding new tricks for next fall. Wood ducks are seldom targeted in dry fields, but P.J. Reilly reveals why you shouldn’t overlook this effective strategy. We’ll trek to Saskatchewan, where unusual fall weather created powerful challenges for hunters to overcome. And you’ll savor an adventure on historic Chesapeake Bay, where a hunt for sea ducks tested the limits of shotguns, gear and hunters.

As always, the Spring Issue carries a full slate of informative and entertaining columns such as Duck Dogs, Shotgunning, Strategies, Waterfowl Chef and Traditions to help you get the most from your waterfowl season.

The only way to receive Delta Waterfowl magazine is to join The Duck Hunters Organization. If you are a member, thank you for your support. The Spring Issue will arrive soon!

To join Delta Waterfowl, call (888) 987-3695 or visit www.deltawaterfowl.org/memberships.