ML646719559

Observation details

Two Long-tailed Ducks were observed swimming and diving together for some time. They separated from each other for a while but stayed withing 300 feet of each other. They were about 50 to 100 feet off shore near the boat ramp at the Lake Shastina Community Center. One individual had a larger and more pronounced dark patch below the cheek than the other and was overall darker with stronger, though faint, markings. The second individual was lighter and the dark patch was less pronounced than the darker individual. White head with dark patch below cheek and around to top of bill. Short stubby bill, blue-gray and black. Photo shows the lighter individual is slightly larger than the Eared Grebe shown. The photo showing both individuals together show no size difference, but some color and pattern differences. Long-tailed ducks in winter plumage, busy diving and foraging.