An Easter surprise - for all of us

Well, it was just Nolan that was surprised this Easter.  Yesterday, or the day before, we noticed a depression in some of the mulch by our house, just off our front porch.  Some type of creature was digging around, and we assumed it was looking for something to eat.

Today, there is an egg in the depresssion - and NOT the colored variety.

Our front porch.

The "depression" - can be barely seen in the second opening from the left post.

The "surprise" ... we will see if more arrive.  

It could make for an interesting couple of months, whether or not Ma Mallard decides to come back.  I've been doing some research to see if this is normal, or if we are in trouble, and found a like to a site.

http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/about/faqs/birds/nestpot/nest.htm

There is a part of me that hopes this works, as it will be great watching for Nolan.  But it could also be complicated, as people won't be able to use our front door if Ma Mallard becomes very protective!  So, if you stop by the house and see protective fencing keeping you from the front door -  you've been warned.