The bill picture this morning was dispositive: the mallard hen we’ve called “Katie” all summer is certainly Honey, my favorite duck who bred here the last two years. She was gone this morning, but returned this afternoon in the company of the large and handsome drake Ritz Quacker. Here are the pair this afternoon, along with views of the left side of the bill from today and from last year, showing that there’s a match on that side as well as the right. The duck is, without doubt, Honey.
Honey and Ritz:
Left side of bill this afternoon (Honey looking up cutely):
Left side of the bill on August 12, 2018. It’s a match again.
I’d like to know what Honey would do if she saw a life-size picture of herself
A fight?
I’d like to know what Honey would do if she saw a life-size picture of herself
A quack-off (since the fight didn’t work on the first attempt)?
Going to go for the third try?
I’m so happy for you, Jerry! ‘Tis a wonderful world!
PCC reunited with Honey just as the time approaches for her departure. Sweet irony.
She’s certainly a swain magnet.
This is not only heartwarming but interesting. These markings are surprisingly similar across years and it will be interesting to do the same comparisons with your other females from this year and females you get next year.
If your camera has high enough resolution, can you compare the irises? That’s how eagle spotters identify grown-up eaglets.
As Prof. ‘iggins said, “By George, I think she’s got it!”
No doubt in my mind.
Ritz Quacker! What a great name!
A happy result.
Welcome home, Honey
I’ve always thought Katie was probably Honey, so I’m thrilled that there is now proof.
Me too!
-Ryan
Honey knows a good-looking sailor when she sees one