Mr. Gadwall

Gadwalls (Mareca strepera) are seen hereabouts only during the winter. I've probably been seeing them for a couple of months, but confusing them with other waterfowl, like female mallards (the female gadwalls look a lot like female mallards).

This male swam through the Dutch Gap wetlands particularly close to me this morning, allowing me the get a good shot of his intricate markings and very small bill.

[Esther Rosenberg]

Beautiful reflection

[Anne Pancella]

The best way to recognize a female mallard is "black saddle on an orange bill." Male Gadwalls are so beautiful. I esp. like the silvery feathers on their rumps. Nice shot.