Two new kids on the block.

[Barr1e]

I'm sorry if it seems I am posting too often, but I felt I had to share some excitement with you.

Anne and I were informed about a new duck which had been seen on the canal fairly local to us, so after lunch we did a little searching and found a rather busy animal which we both found difficult to photograph.

Hybrid Ruddy Shelduck possibly escaped from a collection.


Our first job of the day was to visit our lady kingfisher, who, fortunately we thought was in, imagine our surprise to see a male perched on her spot. We had an appointment to keep so did not find out whether he/she have teamed up - further news possibly.


Also posted on www.fourthirds-user.com

Regards. Barr1e

[Pops]

Re: Two new kids on the block.

The Ruddy Shelduck is a real beauty and I would say that your lady kingfisher is now courting strongly.

You may be interested in this little snippet as it seems your right to assume it being an escapee
<quote>
Ruddy Shelduck Tadorna ferruginea

The majority of Ruddy Shelducks in the UK are unlikely to be genuine wild vagrants from their native range. Escapes from captivity are frequent and these account for a number of sightings. However small influxes of this species appear each autumn, usually involving immature birds, and it now seems likely that these derive from an burgeoning feral population which exists in Continental Europe. This species has not yet become established as a ferally breeding bird in the UK, but it has bred here (including in Norfolk) and these birds may perhaps account for some of the flocks that have been seen in Norfolk recently.
</quote>

[Mowgli]

Re: Two new kids on the block.

I'm sorry if it seems I am posting too often, but I felt I had to share some excitement with you.

I wish I could say that, dont ever stop posting barr1e it is great to see your pictures. The shelduck is amazing.
Mowgli