Two days ago I happened upon about a dozen Buffleheads involved in their annual courtship rituals at the refuge. Male Buffeheads court their future mates by a vigorous exercise of head bobbing, diving, running on water, and flying over the head of the female ducks.
Sometimes, a female Bufflehead chased a male away.
The courtship also took place underwater, perhaps with the males trying to prove they could be good foragers. I saw them dive and spend a minute or two submerged, but unfortunately was not equipped to take photos under water.
Gunta said:
Buffleheads are my favorite ducks. I simply love watching their antics. Great catches, Hien!
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neihtn2012 said:
Thank you! Goof to know that you like Buffleheads.
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bayphotosbydonna said:
Awesome action series, Hien! Spectacular capture of the male in your first photo with the rainbow sheen!!
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neihtn2012 said:
Thank you Donna!
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Emma Cownie said:
I could hardly concentrate because I was pondering “bufflehead” – I have never heard of these. What a great name. Is a “buffle” a thing?
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neihtn2012 said:
Buffle comes from buffalo, as these ducks are small but have a large head.
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Emma Cownie said:
Ah, that makes sense. Thank you for explaining that.
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Eliza Waters said:
Impressive displays, but I can’t help feeling sorry for the beleaguered females!
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neihtn2012 said:
Another point of view: each female had her pick of five or more admirers!
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Irene said:
Love the difference of opinion between the male and female. Very funny! 😄 Enjoyable post with beautiful shots, Hien.
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neihtn2012 said:
Glad you like these shots. Thanks Irene!
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K. Alice Compeau said:
This is very cool to see! So much better for them that they haven’t started using an app to court.
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neihtn2012 said:
Ha, ha, no bird app, yet! I agree with you though. 🙂
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ekurie said:
Funny how that works (in the natural world!) great photos
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neihtn2012 said:
🙂
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