Harlequin Duck

Homer, Alaska

Harlequin Ducks are so shy that we never got close enough for a good photograph on the open water. But a small group made its home in the harbor and that was my chance. I thought I was going to go home empty handed of Harlequin Ducks, but I ended up with a beautiful keeper!

The fleeing ducks gave me a great opportunity photograph the takeoff itself. Watching them run across the water to get up speed reminded me of a ski boat climbing onto plane,