Even though we are already one month into spring, a considerable amount of snow fell overnight. This is how it looked at Lynde Shores near Whitby:
Other photos:
In with the Mallards here, I spotted this unusual duck:
As it was associated with Mallards and being about the same size, I assume that it is a Mallard hybrid.
Mallards frequently interbreed with domesticated species, American Black Ducks and Pintails, leading to various hybrids.
I see the Black Duck hybrid “bib duck” frequently.
Today’s duck was quite different.
When I first saw it, I momentarily thought it was a male Pintail.
With some imagination, I think that you can see traits from both parents.
MYSTERY BIRD
At the conclusion of the post, I will identify it.
Other birds:
MYSTERY BIRD
The unmarked grayish head and small pink bill identify this as a Dark-eyed Junco. Males are darker in colour so this is a female.
MAILBOX
They do their best work upside-down, don’t they? 😊
NATURE POETRY
From troubles of the world
I turn to ducks,
Beautiful comical things
Sleeping or curled
Their heads beneath white wings
By water cool,
Or finding curious things
To eat in various mucks
Beneath the pool. – F. W. Harvey
Miles Hearn
Sure, but what about the REAL mystery, that first odd (in a nice way) looking duck? So I guess you concluded it was a Pintail-Mallard hybrid. It looked like a Mallard mixed with a Goose, to my ignorant eyes (joking). What a beautifully interesting looking creature! And the snowfall? I walked in a winter wonderland with my dog. Life can be very strange. Nice line-up of birds and ducks! Thanks, Miles!