Lesser Scaup Sighting

Before heading out to get groceries, I did a quick search of mapping software to see if there were any names for the retention pond I just found over 60 Blue-winged Teals. No such luck. Just a retention pond. However, I did notice another body of water not far from where I sometimes buy groceries. Time for a swing-by.

It is a small pond in a little neighborhood complex (pre-planned and faux exclusive) so I wasn't hoping for much. I was surprised by the variety of birds. Several species of heron, Mallard, Coots, Ringed-necked Ducks, and my first shots of Lesser Scaup for the season.



Lesser Scaup are not rare in this part of the state in the Winter but always nice to find. The clouds moved in as I tried to get some shots as night closed in but... Next to the pair was a Ring-necked Duck for comparison.



Then, appropriate for a new discovery, a rainbow appeared off to the left as I prepared to head home.



A nice end to the day.