There are more males among Wood Ducks than females and that creates a fierce competition among drakes for mates.
When a male chooses his mate he will almost never let her be out of his sight and will follow her closely. Unfortunately, this does not stop other males from encroaching on someone's chosen one and trying to take her away.
On the photo above you can see how the female Wood Duck gives a cold shoulder to the male who isn't her mate.
The rival male Wood Duck is planning to "steal" the female, his posture is very aggressive.
Keep going your own way and don't even think about encroaching on my chosen one.
There are certainly better ways to introduce yourself.
The female Wood Duck is rather surprised than amazed by this aggressive guy.
These two are already paired. The male now will closely follow his mate and protect her from harassment from other males.
Generally, life is good!
They look painted! Wonderful shots, Kaya.
ReplyDeleteКая, спасибо за утинные истории)
ReplyDeleteBellisimas imagenes, amiga... Se agradecen mucho, siempre, tus explicaciones
ReplyDeleteUn abrazo
Intéressantes séquences !!
ReplyDeleteThey're fooling around there. Sometimes the water melts on the surface, and then it freezes and the ducks are left with their feet in the ice.
ReplyDeleteSon realmente bonitos estos patos. Sobre todo los machos. La vida en la naturaleza es así, siempre compitiendo. Por la comida, por la pareja y por conservar la pareja.
ReplyDeleteUn abrazo y cuidate.