Not Great Odds!
Two females and eight males! In our area these small ducks are around most of the year with the breeding pairs leaving to the interior to breed and nest in the spring. The males return to the coast as soon as the eggs are laid and incubation starts. The males then gather and molt and wait till the females and young return to start “sorting things out”!
The harlequin duck is a small sea duck. It takes its name from Harlequin , a colourfully dressed character in Commedia dell'arte. The species name comes from the Latin word "histrio", "actor". In North America it is also known as lords and ladies. Other names include painted duck, totem pole duck, rock duck, glacier duck, mountain duck, white-eyed diver, squeaker and blue streak.
Similar species: Ducks, Geese, Etc.
By gary fast
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Uploaded Oct 26, 2018. Captured Oct 26, 2018 11:29 in Whaletown Rd, Whaletown, BC V0P 1Z0, Canada.
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