Today we have a lovely selection of photos today from reader Colin Franks (photo page here, Facebook page here, and Instagram page here).
Common Loon (Gavia immer):
Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula):
American Kestrel (Falco sparverius):
Bushtit (Psaltriparus minimus):
Hooded Merganser (Lophodytes cucullatus):
Varied Thrush (Ixoreus naevius):
Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos):
Black Turnstone (Arenaria melanocephala):
Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus):
Baby Canada Goose (Branta Canadensis):
Those are beautiful!
Perhaps Jerry can comment on why Mallards feet are so orange?
I have no idea!
Superb!
Beautiful pictures! The loon family is adorable. I saw a scene like this (from farther away) a few years ago when we vacationed at a cabin by a lake.
Stunning photos Colin!
As far as why the duck’s feet are orange, it is possible that this is a signal of sorts. Lots of birds have colorful ‘bare parts’ (i.e. the color is in the skin not the feathers) and it is known to serve a signaling function. It would be interesting to know if female legs are as colorful. It is also entirely possible that the coloration serves no function.
Thanks. I think you’re on to something.
Excellent work, undoubtedly reflecting much patience.
Beautiful
Re the pic of the cute Canada goose chick: why is it that c gooses have become so much more abundant, and what can we do to reverse this trend (with, I hope, extreme prejudice)?
Very nice! Thanks .
Wonderful work, Colin. Thanks.
Oh, how much time and money do humans spend on grooming and products, cosmetics and beauticians, yet with no effort, these ducks are magnificient, with not a feather out of place.
Well they do spend a fair amount of time grooming themselves. If they don’t look after their feathers they will suffer from loss of water-proofing, insulation and aerodynamics!
Gorgeous photos Colin, thanks for sharing them!