Kip’s Comments - January 25, 2026

Will He and His Pals Stick Around

Now that this lone drake wood duck, along with a dozen or more mallards, have toughed out this winter so far - including the coldest weather for a long time, the question to ask is will they stick around? I am guessing if the flowing water continues to maintain a pool of ice-free water, the birds will remain in the area. It would appear they are finding enough to eat, so they must be doing OK.

Drake Wood Duck in Winter - Image 1059519

Drake Wood Duck in Winter - Image 1059556

From a personal point of view, I enjoy seeing them since they provide color and life to an otherwise cold landscape.

Mallards in Winter - Image 1059587

At a different location I found this adult bald eagle perched in an aspen tree. Since I like both eagles and aspens (or any white-barked trees), I had to stop to record the scene.

Adult Bald Eagle in Quaking Aspen - Image 1059468