Our neighbour was surprised by a female Mallard emerging from a pile of branches and leaves. The intent was to clean out the backyard debris without harming the nest and eggs. A temporary shelter was built over the nest from three plastic barrels and a piece of plywood. Despite the disruption, the female Mallard returned to her nest.
(Photographed April 13 & 14, 2016 on private property, Emily Township, City of Kawartha Lakes, Ontario, Canada)