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White headed duck

Discussion

6 replies
Posted by Mike Smith on May 7, 2009 at 1:56 AM
White headed duck
Male in full breeding plumage. This Mediterannean endemic species is what all the fuss over the American Ruddy duck inter-breeding is all about and the reason for the current Ruddy cull endorsed by the RSPB. Another species that wouldn't win a beauty parade. I still haven't captured its strange bubble display of vibrating the breast feathers so still have something to strive for, that said, I think this is my best effort of a WHD to date.

Usual techs, E-3, 300mm plus 1.4tc, resting on hide shelf rather than tripod.

Posted by David Sewell on May 7, 2009 at 4:11 AM
I like the water droplets on the back, you have also handled that white cheek very well.

David
Posted by Mike Smith on May 7, 2009 at 4:41 AM
Thanks David, yes it always needs -1ev to stop the white head blowing out, I always forget with the first few shots when swapping subjects :biggrin:
Posted by Lee Newman on May 7, 2009 at 6:17 AM
Hes an ugly Duck Mike. Well detailed, nice reflection & good comp. I too like the water droplets on its back.

Lee
Posted by Mark sellings on May 7, 2009 at 6:21 AM
What a beauty! :biggrin: bit central for my tastes but exposed well and sharp where it matters.

Mark
Posted by Danny Green on May 7, 2009 at 7:49 AM
Nice one Mike, its a nice species of duck isn't it, well worth the effort to protect it.

Danny :toast: :toast:
Posted by Justin on May 8, 2009 at 3:09 PM
A good one Mike. I think these are wonderful looking ducks :cool: