I headed down to my neighborhood ponds yesterday morning while there was some sunshine and my favorite image of the day was simply a duck on a rock.
Mallard on a rock – Nikon D500, f8, 1/1250, ISO 500, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
There were plenty of other ducks near the pond and on the open water. This drake caught my eyes because of his alert posture, his shiny green head, and bright orange legs.
I’m not sure why this male was as alert as he appeared to be. The other ducks around him were relaxed, dozing, and preening. He was paying attention to everything around him and what was going on in the sky above.
All it took for me to feel joy was some sunshine, being outside, and a duck on a rock in my viewfinder. I don’t need much to feel happiness.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Mallard photos plus facts and information about this species.
Nice composition of the alert sentry. I think flocks of geese may also have one or more always looking out for danger.
I completely understand your joy – which I share miles away in time and distance.
I often get excited too over ducks. We need to make it down there again. Beautiful greenhead. 😍
Maybe he drew the short straw & was the sentry for the morning. A lonely job so he’s making the most of it! Lovely shot.