By: musicianonskis

Sep 22 2013

Tags: ,

Category: Autumn, birds, Lac Champagneur

4 Comments

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JEAN!

That elegant duck – a Gadwell, I think – turned up  in a low area at the end of the lake.  Did she lose her flock?

Share
4 Comments
Dominique
Dominique
September 30, 2013 16:42

It’s a male Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) with it’s winter (eclipse) plumage.

0
musicianonskis
musicianonskis
Author
Reply to  Dominique
September 30, 2013 17:53

Thanks, Dominique! – what is is the distinguishing thing that I would look for to tell the difference?

0
Dominique
Dominique
October 5, 2013 18:01

Difference from a gadwall? The most obvious is the speculum (when it can be seen). Gadwalls have a white speculum and Mallards bright violet. Then colors of the bill and legs lead you to nothing else than a male mallard. (But there is interbreeding between Mallards and American Black Ducks that can be tricky to ID)

Have a look at this: http://www.ducks.org/hunting/waterfowl-id

0
musicianonskis
musicianonskis
Author
October 5, 2013 20:46

Thanks again, Dominique!! And for the link as well – some very helpful photos there.

0
wpdiscuz   wpDiscuz