ML510274301

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

I first found this duck last week and was struck by its exceedingly white flank -- too white to be a typical drake RNDU. While attempting to document the bird I lost it among the geese, though I was suspecting a possible hybrid. Returned this morning to look again and better document the bird. It eventually revealed itself along with a suite of exceedingly odd features. One flank was very light colored, while the opposite flank was very dark. Photos reveal some red coloration in the lower park of the neck, though perhaps this is the normal 'ring' of color that is difficult to see, but present on adult male RNDU. Seeking more input into this odd individual, but the best explanation I can conjure up is a combination of hybridization and possibly bilateral gyandromorphism? I'm guessing the lighter flanks and back and reddish on the neck could be a result of a hybridization between Ring-necked Duck and Redhead? Hoping for more insight from those better versed in plumage abnormalities and hybridization in waterfowl.

Technical information

Model

Canon PowerShot SX50 HS

ISO

100

Focal length

215 mm

Flash

Flash did not fire

f-stop

f/6.5

Shutter speed

1/160 sec

Dimensions

2992 pixels x 2992 pixels

Original file size

1.9 MB