The most common duck on the stretch of the River Wye with which I am familiar is probably the goosander (Mergus merganser). It may be outnumbered by mallards but the goosander is certainly more visible, diving for fish and skimming, arrow-like over the surface if the river. The male is a striking dark green and creamy white bird with a long, red bill. The female is more subtly coloured, soft grey and white with a russet head and a red bill. This trio were caught by the sun as they preened near the shade of the bank, and that highlight combined with the dark water showed them off to perfection.
photo © T. Boughen Camera: Nikon P900
