Steve Furman/2006/11 min
The Hooded Merganser is a rare and reclusive duck found only in North America. Every spring, in the Great Lakes region, the wary hen lays and incubates her eggs in a nest high in the trees. Just 24 hours after hatching, the tiny ducklings must make the perilous leap to the ground below to begin life in the wild.
This age-old rite is rarely observed by humans. 'Ride of the Mergansers,' an 11-minute wildlife documentary, brings this hidden drama to the screen. Filmed entirely in northern Minnesota, 'Ride of the Mergansers' is a heartwarming blend of natural history, humor, and suspense. You'll be entertained, educated, and inspired - and leave with a newfound appreciation of the phrase 'leap of faith.'
AWARDS: Kids First! Film Festival, May 2011, Independent Short Ages 5-12 EcoFocus Film Festival, Athens, GA, October 2008, "Audience Award, Children's Favorite" EarthVision Int'l Environmental Film Festival, Santa Cruz, CA, March 2008, "Kids Power Hour"