Before the rain set in this weekend, Friday I was able to finally get back down to Washington DC to Constitution Gardens to enjoy the ducks in the pond.
The ice has mostly melted and the waterfowl are thrilled to be back. Northern Shovelers, Gadwalls, American wigeons, Ring necked ducks, and of course the mallards and hundreds of Canada geese. The pond is big enough for the birds to keep their distance and even though they might float right in front of you, having a longer lens certainly helps.
It’s one of those places that you just have to plan on getting down and dirty in the goose poop. Yep, lots of goose poop. Can’t help it, and with the rain we’ve been getting lately it’s wet, muddy, icky goose poo. But totally worth it. While they are wild ducks, they are a bit desensitized to visitors and so long as you’re quiet and patient some exciting things can be seen.
It’s great to be back out in the field photographing birds, and in particular during duck season as they are easier targets and usually many more of them in one place then when I’m off trying to capture little teeny tiny warblers. Enjoy!
Emily Carter ~ Nature as Art 
Beautifully photographed, especially with the eye level angle. A true artist at work—goose poop and all.
Totally worth it though Stephen. Thank you and great to see you as well.
Constitution Gardens is a treasure. I shot Canada geese there a few weeks ago. And, yes, a long lens works best. Thanks for this post.
My pleasure John and thrilled that you also have been able to enjoy this treasure.
So beautiful, ducks are just the best with their expressive eyes!
I love ducks, hate it when duck season ends. Thank you very much Terri.
Duck Feeds! I love ducks, Emily. Ducks are so smart. To prove it:
A duck walks into a feed store and asks, “Got any duck feed?”
The clerk tells him, “No, we don’t have a market for it it so we don’t carry it.”
The duck says, “Okay” and leaves. The next day, the duck walks in to the feed store and asks, “Got any duck feed?”
Again the clerk says no and the duck leaves.
Next day, the duck walks in, and asks, “Got any duck feed?”
The clerk says, “I’ve told you twice, we don’t have duck feed, we’ve never had duck feed and we never will have duck feed. If you ask me again, I’ll nail your feet to the floor.”
The duck leaves.
The next day, the duck walks in and asks, “Got any nails?”
“No,” comes the reply.
“Got any duck feed?”
This is hilarious Perpetua! Thank you so very much for sharing.
Emily, the ducks did it. Quack. Perpetua
Wow! 🙂
Thank you Marland!
You’re welcome!
Beautiful captures Emily!
Thank you very much Joanne
What a view and truly nature’s gift!
Ducks truly are. Thank you Myra.
Lovely collection. The Shovelers are gorgeous–great capture with the flapping.
It’s a challenge for me to get those flapping shots Ellen. I truly appreciate your kindness.
Always, always, always fabulous, Emily!!
Hello my dear Rebecca ! I hope all is going well with you and thank you so much for your enthusiasm.
Constitution Gardens? Magothy River? I’m confused.