ML646663167

Observation details

Incredible find by Joe Dunkleman. Juvenile/female type. Bird casually patrolling the pond, diving somewhat regularly with the wing-spreading action similar to that of a Long-tailed Duck. Dark brown duck, slightly larger than Buffleheads seen for comparison, with bold white spot posterior to cheek and larger pale patch just behind bill. Relatively small bill. At one point the duck walked up onto the bank and preened for a few minutes. Also seen in flight when a maintenance vehicle drove down near the pond, causing the Hooded Mergansers and Harlequin to fly; the Mergansers flew away and the Harlequin circled once before returning to the water. Phone-scope photos taken from way up on the hill.