When seen from a distance you would be forgiven for thinking this is just a greyish-brown dabbling duck but only by getting up close to a Gadwall (Anas strepera) can you begin to appreciate its understated elegance.
Whilst the male lacks the gaudy plumage of many other drakes it is the finely vermiculated grey body; the peppery markings on the crown and breast; brown plumes over its back plus its distinctive black rear end that sets it apart from other duck species.
Linking to WILD BIRD WEDNESDAY.
absolutely! i think they're complex and beautiful!
ReplyDeleteOh yes, he's very handsome!
ReplyDeleteA lovely duck. When I was out the other day with my bird class we saw several pairs at a lake.
ReplyDeleteSpot on Frank. It's one of my favourite ducks due to its subtle beauty. Really needs to be seen close up to appreciate it fully. Great pictures as usual.
ReplyDeleteMother Nature amazes us all the time with such wonderful patterns.
ReplyDeleteBeautifully fine detail on those feathers.
ReplyDeleteStunning photos and a beautiful bird.
ReplyDeleteGreat photos showing that beautiful plumage. As you said - very elegant indeed!
ReplyDeletePretty series on the Gadwall.. I guess the winter ducks are moving back in.. Great photos.
ReplyDeleteExcellent! Love those feather patterns!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous plumage! Fabulous shots!
ReplyDeleteReally lovely, Frank; understated elegance indeed.
ReplyDeleteGreat shots of lovely birds.
ReplyDeleteThe Gadwells plumage is stunning. great set of pics Frank!
ReplyDeleteI love ducks. The herringbone is beautiful too.
ReplyDeleteIt really is a beautiful duck! Love the feather patterns!
ReplyDeleteSuch a pretty guy - with beautiful markings!
ReplyDeleteOne of my favourite species. Like you say there's just so much detail in their plumage.
ReplyDeleteVery lovely Frank of these ducks.
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