Hi, is this a family of Garganey spotted at a nature reserve in West Yorkshire today? I tried to get a clearer photo (old mobile phone) but they all hopped into the water.TIA
Definitely not Gargany. They look similar to either Mandarin or Wood ducks, but not exactly like either.
Thanks for looking and for your reply Cris. I've seen Mandarins nearby on occasions, but these weren't anywhere near as colourful enough. The Wood ducks don't have the prominent white eye stripe these ducks have.
Perhaps a hybrid of sorts.
I'll try go back tomorrow to get better pics :)
Squillon said:but these weren't anywhere near as colourful enough
That may be because the mandarin ducks may be coming out of eclipse plumage; the drakes look like female mandarin when in "eclipse" apart from retaining their red bill.
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Regards, Hazel
I do believe you're right Hazel! I didn't even consider that but it makes perfect sense now. Thank you.
I'm more familiar with garden birds!