Mandarin Duck
The Mandarin Duck is generally considered to be the most beautiful duck in the world. I would agree. Since this duck is only native to certain countries in Asia, this one is undoubtedly an escapee or a release. He has become quite a star locally, not only because he is seemingly adapting well to the wild, but he's also taken up with a lady Wood Duck! I shot him mostly in the water today (over 1200 images!) with his lady friend, but I was intrigued when he repeatedly climbed up the bank of the creek and walked towards me. At one point, he was less than 8 feet from me. He would then jump/fly back to the creek, only to repeat this three times! This is one of those times. I was the only photographer here early this morning, and I can't tell you what a thrill it was to see and photograph him!
Mandarin Duck
The Mandarin Duck is generally considered to be the most beautiful duck in the world. I would agree. Since this duck is only native to certain countries in Asia, this one is undoubtedly an escapee or a release. He has become quite a star locally, not only because he is seemingly adapting well to the wild, but he's also taken up with a lady Wood Duck! I shot him mostly in the water today (over 1200 images!) with his lady friend, but I was intrigued when he repeatedly climbed up the bank of the creek and walked towards me. At one point, he was less than 8 feet from me. He would then jump/fly back to the creek, only to repeat this three times! This is one of those times. I was the only photographer here early this morning, and I can't tell you what a thrill it was to see and photograph him!