Mystery duck, Northern California, October (1 Viewer)

[wdc]

I saw this duck at Briones Reservoir this morning. It was on a log with some turtles and a Mallard. My best guess, colorwise, is a Fulvous Duck, but am really not sure. The photos are all low res, and at the limit of the camera, so apologies. The one with the Mallard at least gives a comparative color relationship. Is it just another Mallard, or something else?

-Bill

 

[Nutcracker]

An escaped farm breed of Mallard (i.e., domesticated duck); and yes, another Mallard in front, wild-type this time :t:

 

[wdc]

Thanks!

-Bill

 

[Microtus]

I agree with Nutcracker. I wonder what species the turtle belongs to.

 

[wdc]

I agree with Nutcracker. I wonder what species the turtle belongs to.

My best guess, according to the website below is Northwestern Pond Turtle.

http://www.californiaherps.com/turtles/turtlespics.html

I admit the name seems simple, and somewhat vague, but perhaps if you dig into the species sub families, there will be more specific characteristics. Or maybe turtles are fairly common and adaptable... ;-)

-B.

 

[Microtus]

Thanks, wdc!