Mallard Anas platyrhynchos | April 3, 2011 |
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Mallards are exceedingly common but quite good-looking. So in posting mallard photos today, I tried to make an interesting selection.
Photographing birds in flight is always a challenge, but since mallards are plentiful, there are more opportunities. |
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The male (or drake) mallard's head is iridescent and typically appears green; however, as in the landing photo below, a violet-blue is also possible. |
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And here is a drake mallard flying in green. |
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Next is a detailed view of a female mallard in flight. |
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Finally, here's a mallard couple demonstrating synchronized flying. (How long did it take the couple to get that right?) |
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Mallards are large ducks, about twice the size of a wood duck.
Photo note: I used a Pentax K20D, with the Sigma 150-500mm lens, during March and April 2011 for these photos. |