spring visitors

We’ve had a squadron of wood ducks in our yard all spring. I don’t think they will stay, I believe they are passing through. And honestly, I don’t know if they are same ducks day to day or not. Their markings and colors are stop-in-your tracks arrestingly beautiful, no matter how many times I see them. Interestingly, this little side feather is the only one I have found so far. Spring is definitely not molting season, it’s mating season. But I am surprised I haven’t found at least a few more as the males jockey each other for the females’ attentions. Only one–it makes it feel like a gift.

wood duck feather