A Northern Shoveler navigates the margins of a shallow slough on the spring prairie. This is a shot I probably would not have attempted on a bright, sunny day; it would be difficult not to blow out those white highlights or block up the darker areas on his head and bill. Possible, but difficult. On a day of soft light, however, he looks smashing! Of course, if he flushes, his rich colours will disappear into a white sky, so I was happy to catch him in a colourful setting as he kept a wary eye on me from the water.
This species was a rarity during my west coast days, but here on the prairie they are perhaps the most common duck - I see them on every outing.
Photographed near Val Marie, Saskatchewan (Canada). Don't use this image on websites, blogs, or other media without explicit permission ©2020 James R. Page - all rights reserved.
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