On a second stop of the day at this location birding on the Fox River in Waukesha appeared a Hooded Merganser. This stunning male spent his time checking out the female Mallards one by one. I think this could be the famous Hooded Merganser “Hollyhood” that was here just over a year ago? Well, not really, who knows for sure, but it put on a great show while I was there giving nice views while following female Mallards around on the river. I am almost convinced there is some connection between male Hooded Mergansers and female Mallards as this is my 3rd time I’ve witnessed this behavior with these two species. What is it with the Hooded Merganser wanting a companion, a mating thing, or ?? It was a cold day with winds out of the northeast, temps below freezing and very little sun. Images were taken on April 8, 2018.
Hooded Merganser, male…crest partially down
His eyes on another female Mallard…
The Hooded Merganser starred at the female Mallard out of the corner of his eye for about 20 seconds, is this the one….
Crest down on this Hooded Merganser swimming over to check out another female Mallard…
Going to check out another female Mallard…crest down…
Cruising over to a female Mallard to see if she was the one!
Crest down…
Crest up…
Crest partially down…
Coming into shore…
Just moving along…
How beautiful – on of my favorite ducks. Thanks for sharing!
“Hollywood” on the Fox!…doesn’t get any better than that. Many thanks.
As always, wonderful pics. Such a handsome fellow! That crest is a real eye catcher…how could any female resist?
Beautiful, Jim, just beautiful!
Awwww Hollywood is so handsome, spring love is in the air. He will get a mate . Thanks for the wonderful pictures and descriptions.
Gorgeous bird- great closeup details. Thanks, Jim.
I saw him today ! What a stunning bird and so happy to have gotten a glimpse.