Active Teal

There has been an influx of Teal Duck during last week on the Bird Reserve area in the Parkland where I regularly walk. One or two of this species can be observed during Autumn and into the Winter, but the numbers have increased considerably now. I was given the "heads up" about this from a Birding colleague and went to see for myself. 

As always with this particular location when looking out of the hide you are looking into the sun, which is a bit of a handicap at times especially there. Most water birds there, are always at a fair distance as well. Fortunately I was able to get some shots of this very colourful Duck.

These below appeared to be resting, but all the while the males were studying the opposition and the form.

Some males were getting together and conferring notes.

Out further on the small lake there was much more activity, consistent with Teal Ducks choosing their mates. Frantic males circling around singularly unimpressed females whistling and making that funny sharp jerking movement with their head and neck. (Which I'm sure they will suffer for in older life {:).) 

Some males further out on the lake against the backdrop of reeds, had already chosen and some where getting near to posing the question.

Some males and the odd female just looked on forlornly in apparent envy or rejection.

Some males were downright "smoothies"and just playing it cool.

Some in Clint Eastwood terminology were saying to others, "You just ain't making it punk".{:))