This cute #Mallard has taken up residency in my stream. His wife is around here somewhere, too. They come stay for a few weeks each Spring before moving on. 🦆🌈
Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) near cattails (Typha angustifolia) at Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge in Alfalfa County, Oklahoma, United States on February 9, 2024
Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) Ducks at Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge in Alfalfa County, Oklahoma, United States on February 9, 2024
I was scanning the pond and wetland area at a local park when I noticed this male mallard out in the open all by himself. He would occasionally open his eyes to see what was going on.
I love that his eyes are closed and it shows moments of solitude.