An Unlikely Friendship

For the past three years, Mueller resident David Altuve has had a front-row seat to one of the neighborhood’s sweetest little stories. It’s a tale of friendship, companionship, and the unexpected bonds that can form in nature. 

It all began during David’s regular visits to Mueller Lake Park, where he noticed a goose who stood out from the rest. She had once been part of a larger group of geese that called the park home, but over time, the others disappeared, leaving her on her own. “ I affectionately call her Abigoose,” David says. “Over time, I’ve come to appreciate her unique story.” 

After spending time alone, Abigoose seemed to find a new companion in an unlikely friend, a mallard duck. The pair began spending their days together around the lake, swimming side by side, searching for food, and simply keeping each other company. 

A Sweet Bond 

While geese and mallards are different species and cannot breed together, both are known for forming strong social bonds. For David, watching this friendship develop has been a reminder that connection can happen in unexpected ways. “I’ve had the privilege of watching this relationship unfold over the past three years, and it has become one of my favorite small stories in the neighborhood,” he says. 

The pair have become familiar faces to many Mueller residents who enjoy spending time around the lake. In fact, when Abigoose and her companion recently disappeared for longer than usual, the neighborhood noticed. Concerned residents banded together and even turned to Reddit to share sightings and try to figure out where the pair had gone.  

Thankfully, Abigoose and her mallard companion eventually returned, much to the relief of their many admirers. For David, the story is about more than just two birds at a park. It has changed the way he looks at the wildlife that shares the neighborhood with residents. “One reason I wanted to share their story is that it highlights the importance of treating our local wildlife with kindness and respect,” he says. 

David has occasionally witnessed people disturbing the ducks and geese at the park, including throwing rocks or intentionally harassing them. While he says most visitors are thoughtful stewards of Mueller’s natural spaces, Abigoose’s story serves as a reminder that the animals around us are living creatures capable of forming relationships and deserve our care. 

He also hopes residents remember that feeding wildlife comes with responsibility. While it may be tempting to share a snack with the birds at the lake, traditional favorites like bread and crackers are not healthy for geese and ducks. Better options, when offered in moderation, include foods like oats, romaine lettuce, peas, corn, watermelon, and chopped grapes. 

Whether residents have spotted Abigoose and her mallard companion during a walk around the lake or are just learning their story, their friendship has become a small but meaningful part of life in Mueller. For David, that is what makes the pair so special. They remind us to slow down, notice the world around us, and appreciate the unexpected moments of connection happening right in our own backyard.