After a long day at work, I decided the best medicine was ducking—our term for feeding and photographing ducks, a simple ritual that always fills us with joy. With my stressed Aunt in tow, we set out to connect with nature, leaving behind the day's worries and embracing the fading light of a crisp fall evening.
As we approached the first pond, we were greeted by an unexpected sight: three elegant peahens and a striking peacock strolling amidst the vibrant fall leaves. Peafowl, such as peacocks and peahens, may choose to lay under ferns and in fallen leaves under oak trees in cold weather because these spots provide natural insulation and shelter. The thick foliage of ferns and the accumulation of leaves help trap heat and shield the birds from wind and moisture. Oak trees also offer cover from predators and falling rain, making it a safe and relatively warm microhabitat. Their appearance felt like a little gift from nature, setting the tone for what would be an extraordinary outing.
At the pond, I handed the spotlight over to my Aunt, who called out to the mallards while scattering seed. The ducks eagerly responded, creating a perfect distraction. Meanwhile, I turned my lens to the Hooded Mergansers. Skittish yet busy with their evening baths, the males and females provided a delightful show. Their striking plumage reflected beautifully in the water as they splashed and preened, completely unaware of the mallards clamoring for snacks nearby.
Hooded Mergansers are energetic and thorough when it comes to bathing. They typically flap their wings vigorously, splash water across their backs, and repeatedly dunk their heads underwater to clean their feathers. This behavior not only keeps their plumage in top condition but also helps to remove dirt and parasites. After bathing, they often preen, using their bills to align feathers and distribute oil from their preen gland, which keeps them waterproof and buoyant in their aquatic habitats. This routine is a vital part of their daily activities, ensuring they stay healthy and insulated.
Female Hooded Mergansers have a muted but elegant appearance, perfectly suited for blending into their surroundings. Their plumage is primarily brownish-gray, with a cinnamon-toned crest that stands out, especially when fluffed. Their underparts are lighter, often pale gray or whitish, providing subtle contrast. This understated coloration helps them remain camouflaged, particularly when nesting or resting near water, while still showcasing a delicate beauty up close.
After capturing a few precious shots, we made our way back to the car, only to spot a plump black squirrel perched in a tree, nibbling on a nut. Nearby, tiny birds flitted around a stump, enjoying some seed someone had thoughtfully left behind. Watching these creatures coexist in harmony reminded me of the beauty of nature’s balance—something humans could surely learn from.
Our next stop was the shoreline, hoping to spot and video Greater Yellowlegs. While they remained elusive, the bay had its own surprises. The only bird on the shoreline was a Great Blue Heron, standing tall and solitary against the water's edge. I was keeping a respectful distance, but as I approached, it was clear from the heron's expression that it wasn’t pleased. Letting out a loud squawk, it spread its impressive wings and flew off, its dramatic departure adding an unforgettable moment to the tranquil scene. Sorry!
Then all of a sudden three ducks appeared—a pair of female mergansers and a single male—were busy bathing, their movements casting ripples in the golden glow of the setting sun.
"The male Hooded Merganser is a living work of art, with its striking black-and-white crest, golden eyes, and intricate patterns that shimmer against the water like a masterpiece painted by nature."
As I adjusted my camera, a Great Blue Heron emerged from the shadows, hopping gracefully down the rocks to the water’s edge.
As the Great Blue Heron spread its expansive wings to hop gracefully down the rocks toward the water, I captured a majestic photo that showcased the intricate details of its feathers. The soft blues, grays, and subtle hints of chestnut came alive in the evening light, highlighting the bird’s elegance and strength. It was a moment of pure natural beauty, frozen in time.
Then, as if the scene wasn’t magical enough, a seal surfaced. We watched in awe as it seemed to stir up small fish for the heron and a few opportunistic seagulls. The heron dipped its beak with precision, taking advantage of the seal’s movements. Was the seal intentionally helping? This behavior was new to me, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the collaboration between two completely different species. It was a reminder of how interconnected nature truly is—a partnership I’d never witnessed before.
"To witness a seal and heron fishing together was like glimpsing nature’s secret harmony—an unspoken partnership that reminded me how interconnected and magical the wild truly is."
As darkness fell and the chill of the evening set in, we reluctantly left the shoreline, our spirits lightened and our stresses forgotten. The warmth of the car enveloped us as we reflected on the magic of the world we live in. All it takes is slowing down, observing, and appreciating the wonders that surround us.
Tonight reminded me why I love venturing out with my camera. Each outing offers a fresh perspective, a new story, and a renewed sense of gratitude for this incredible earth we call home.
Ducking good!