The Wit of a Duck and Other Papers

The Wit of a Duck and Other Papers is a collection of essays by John Burroughs, written in the early 20th century. The essays explore themes of nature and animal behavior, highlighting Burroughs' keen observations of wildlife and their interactions with humans. The opening essay, 'The Wit of a Duck,' tells the story of a homesick mallard drake navigating challenges to reunite with its companions, illustrating the idea that animals possess a remarkable homing instinct. This work is notable for its poetic reflection on the natural world and the emotional connections between humans and animals.