Green-winged Teal Size
I took this photo and I still can’t mentally process it correctly. Here we have a drake Green-winged Teal in front of an American Black Duck with Gadwall, American Coot, Mallard, among others. Teals are certainly small ducks, but that bird looks tiny compared to its friends. They are very close to one another and the little teal is closer to me…what a size difference in every feature! This guy seems like a toy in front of the Black Duck on a cold and snowy day. There will not be many more of those left… Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach...
Read MoreCommon Goldeneye
The drake Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula) on the right was swimming with several others of the species in this extremely cropped shot. They were a little too far for my taste, but I was fortunately able to snap a photo at the right second as he was about to devour what looks like a delicious mussel. I think it would feel a little better going down for him than me. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreAmerican Coots
A species such as these American Coot (Fulica americana) entered January finally having to find some open water as the freezing line has penetrated regions like Chautauqua County, quickly locking up the open water of small ponds and waterways. While Lake Erie can still provide a comfortable spot for many waterfowl this winter others will migrate south to the Atlantic Coast and warmer shoreline quarters. These American Coots are actually in the rail family and more closely related to Sandhill Cranes than their duck friends, and if you have ever seen their legs and feet out of the water then...
Read MoreLove in the Air
When I first saw these birds I noticed that the American Wigeon male and female seemed to be a pair, staying close together and calmly swimming in the water. Ducks are pairing off now, if they have not already, and breeding season is not far away. However, I also saw another male following them, and I swear he had a bit of a lonely look to him. Even in this photo you can see his somewhat sad demeanor. I hope I am simply imagining it! Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreCommon Loons (Gavia immer)
There have been sizable groups of Common Loons (Gavia immer), with a few Red-throated Loons (Gavia stellata) occasionally mixed in, off Stratford, Connecticut lately. The waters of Long Island Sound have been a feeding frenzy for the species during this period with prolonged below-average temperatures, and some flocks like this have moved close to shore to dive for meals. On a dark and dreary day their grays blend in wonderfully with the water, making for exceptional camouflage. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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