There is a little unknown place right in the middle of the nation’s capital. Constitution Gardens in Washington D.C. is an oasis near Lincoln’s memorial that provides a natural respite for wildlife.
This little lake is home during the winter months for several migrating duck species. Northern Shovelers, Gadwalls, and Ring Necked Ducks have been seen in this pond. When there are several days of freezing temperatures, much of the lake ices over and the ducks have limited areas of where to forage. Luckily, this means that they are close to the shoreline and very accustomed to visitors on land.
It is a nice sized group and first, being able to find Northern Shovelers in our area is a challenge. And if you do, they are rather shy. Add the bonus that this group is so used to people, beautiful images can be found in the big metropolis.
The adult males are similar to male Mallard ducks. But make no mistake…check out that beak!
If you’re looking for nature in the city, look no further than the pond at Constitution Gardens.
Emily Carter ~ Nature as Art 
Not just the beak either but the eyes too! wow 🙂
Wow, somehow I missed a good number of comments. I do apologize Andy. Weird ducks…and you can see the filter system on their beaks. Thank you Andy.
filter system! will look closer 😃
The real “spice” of life comes from appreciating nature.Thanks for highlighting this “hidden” treasure.
Truly my pleasure to share special places. Thank you so much.
Aw, so gorgeous! Happy new year to you!
I hope you have a wonderful New Years as well Miriam, and may 2017 be the best year ever.
Thank you so much Emily, much appreciated. x
Lovely images, Emily. Nature is indeed all around us. Peter loved your calendar and we opened it today: Gorgeous birds beautifully captured. Thank you and happy New Year to you and yours. 💖
Peter and you are truly too good to me. Thank you so much for kind words and I hope you had a fantastic New Years.
Beautiful images!!! 😎 Happy New Year!!!
Thank you so much Rexlin and Happy New Year to you as well.
Happy Happy New Year! This is our 6th year of celebrating New Year’s Day together. Thank you for your friendship and mentorship!! Hugs and love coming your way…
How it possibly can be that six years have passed us by Rebecca? You are always such an inspiration to me and wishing you a wonderful New Years as well. Hugs!
Have started my 365! Thank you for everything. Keep me posted on your travels!!!
So beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing where to find these feathered treasures. Wishing you a very happy new year!
Truly my pleasure Terri, and thank you so much. May 2017 be a wonderful year for you.
Thank you for sharing these beautiful photos! There are so many tucked away, little known spots of beauty all over our great city, thanks for telling us about a good one.
Pleasure to share Fits and Starts. it is true, DC is truly incredible with its hidden treasures. Hope you check it out.