The Mallard Duck is the most common wild duck in North America. Male mallards, their iconic green/blue heads gleaming in the sun, are among the most breathtaking species of waterfowl in the world. From fall to spring, these breeding male mallards, also known as “drakes,” are instantly identified by the brilliant colors of their iridescent plumage. This mallard was resting on ledge of a fountain in the Scottsdale Civic Center, virtually a stone’s throw from Scottsdale’s City Hall. Mallards may be among the most popular species of waterfowl to hunt, but these ducks, at rest within sight of the Mayor of Scottsdale’s window, seem to know that it’s illegal to shoot ducks here.

I made this image with a telephoto lens from a relatively close over-the-shoulder vantage point. The brilliant coloration plays against the texture of its magnificent reddish brown feathers. This image is both a wildlife study and an example of how nature uses color to bring a male and female together. I made this image in October, at the height of the mating season.