Dapper Ducks

 

American Wigeon pair

On Monday of this week a pair of American Wigeons stopped to refuel at Folly Cove on their way to breeding grounds in northwestern areas of the continent. Bright daylight emphasized the subtle gradations in their markings from cinnamon to sepia. The earth tones contrasted with their sky blue bills, tipped ebony.

The drake

Occasionally the drake veered to an angle where sunlight revealed the pride of his plumage, a peacock-green iridescent sweep above and behind each eye saying, Do-you-dare? to potential brides. His gleaming white cap and forehead blaze guaranteed notice.

Two Black Duck drakes and a Wigeon

Festive coloration adorns the male only in his season of attracting a mate. After breeding he molts to sensible camouflage plumage, to resemble these drab Black Ducks that must be wondering what the fuss is all about, and why court trouble with ostentation?

 Human preferences play no part in the matter, except gratify our sense of delight. Mr. and Mrs. Wigeon have certainly done that.