shelduck

Shelduck

Treshnish Isles, Western Scotland

Shelduck & chicks feeding at the river

One of a family of seven youngsters.

Why not? It's a perfectly cromulent word.

Amongst a number of drakes competing for the attention of the ladies this guy seemed to be top duck.

It amuses me how these always seem to be smiling - even when they are being really aggressive and chasing everything in sight. Very bright but very harsh light on Saturday made it difficult to expose these correctly.

This one was briefly nearby. It doesn't look nearly so colourful next to the brighter hybrid version.

Normally a coastal species, Loch Leven holds a sizeable breeding population of these birds. Competition for territory & mates can be fierce however! These two drakes were taking no prisoners .....a nearby female was watching with great interest!

Shelduck

The female Shelduck is a lot smaller than the male.

Went looking for some reported Godwits this morning but they had moved on so had a crack at the ever present Shelduck's.

just dipped the wingtip in the water as it made a tight turn

This shelduck became an unwanted addition to the contented pair on the river

Took this shot this morning they are common birds but I think they are beautifully coloured ducks

Shelduck

Shelduck

Shelduck

Shelduck

Was delighted to catch these Shelducks at just the right moment. Almost as delighted as I am with my new monopod that I took out for the first time that day.