another displaying Gadwall

[John Chardine]

I was very taken with these male Gadwall displaying to females last week in a local wetland. The raised feathers on the top of their head give them a totally different look.

Canon EOS 40D, 500mm f4, 1.4 tc = 700mm
capture date: Monday, October 13, 2008 1:40:41 PM
exposure program: Aperture Priority
ISO speed: 640
shutter speed: 1/2000
aperture: f5.6
exposure bias: +0.3
metering: Pattern
flash: OFF

[Fabs Forns]

You could count the feathers :)

There seems to be a little distracting or reflection on the chest feathers that distracts a bit from an otherwise beautiful image. He seems to be smiling for you :)

[Daniel Cadieux]

A perfect view of the distinctive head shape for this species! These guys look rather tame?

[Maxis Gamez]

Hi John,

This is very nice with nice low angle. Love the punk rock look :)

[Arthur Morris]

Lovely feather detail and lovely BKGR with nice soft light. Where did you get so close to these guys?

[John Chardine]

It's interesting how different species react to you. Gadwall are common in our Waterfowl Park which has a boardwalk running through it. 100s of people walk through the park every day (when I'm there with my 500 it seems like 1000s!!) Gadwall is one species that will swim up to you feeding or displaying, so long as you remain quiet and still. Ring-necks will do the same but widgeon are totally "skittery" and I have never managed to get close to them yet. I get the impression that Gadwall are "skittery" elsewhere?!

There is a sheen on these new feathers Fabs and perhaps I should have toned it down a little.

Thanks for all the great comments!

[bill kominsky]

I don't see what our beautiful Fab sees but I'm sure it's there, great shot with wonderful detail, and thank you gor your help John.

Bill

[Tony Whitehead]

Lovely shot, John. Those textures are amazing - can almost feel it