Wood Ducks

Despite my intent to diversify, I couldn't resist this pair this morning; the grey morning allowed me to capture both together without one or the other being badly exposed. I have no idea why she is this glamorous colour. Normally the female is a drab brown, and definitely plays second fiddle in the beauty stakes to her mate. Whatever the reason, he appears to be very proud of his blonde wife. Hasn't she got the cutest chubby chops?

Thanks to shutterbugsue for IDing this duck as an 'apricot' wood duck, Who knew!