Merganser and Goosanders

Only yards apart today were a pair of Goosanders and a Red breasted male Merganser.

 Happily preening in the rare sunshine. Goosanders not yet nesting....wise birds I think !

Duck Release and Merganser

Having inspected the rehab duck this morning, I decided to release her back to the river.

Her back had healed with new feather growth, so it was time to let her go.

Down by the Island a Merganser was basking on a rock

More Merganser

Our friend the Male Merganser is still on the lower reaches of the river.

 Once again he gave me the chance for some nice pics.

Male Red Breasted Merganser

With Spring approaching, the male birds plumage becomes more colourful and attractive to the females.

Looking good means taking time out for preening, as was the case for this Male red breasted Merganser.

                   I was lucky enough not to be noticed as I took the shots.