Let me tell you something: It’s really hard to get a picture of yourself alone with the duckling statues in Boston Common.

It’s a big attraction, especially for little kids who love to climb all over them. Plus, even when you’re standing there waiting patiently for your turn, nobody assumes it’s because a dog wants its photo made with the ducks.

Anyhow, the sculpture of Mrs. Mallard and her eight ducklings is based on the 1941 children’s book, Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey.

In the book, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard come to Boston to find a home, and are enamored with the gorgeous Public Garden.

But it also seems dangerous, what with all the human and bike traffic that came whizzing past. So when the ducklings hatch, mama mallard teaches them to swim, watch out for themselves and return to the tiny island in the lagoon.

Designed by Nancy Schon, the art was placed in 1987 as a tribute to McCloskey, who introduced the Boston Public Garden to countless children over the years. They are spread out over 35 feet of space and are often dressed for special seasons and holidays, or even in sports jerseys when Boston teams are doing well.

During our visit last month, they were wearing sweaters. Even more fitting now because it’s gonna be frigid this weekend.