Preening is an important grooming routine for all birds, and ducks are no exception. For you photographers out there, this photo provides a study in composition and focal lengths. I chose a tight shot to showcase the Mallard’s preening behavior. Remember that you get to decide what you put in the frame. What is it that you want to capture? I always shoot with multiple focal lengths and then determine which ones I find the most visually appealing. The composition of this photo gives you a close-up look at the Mallard’s head and eye, which has three eyelids by the way, and the beautiful purplish-blue speculum. Though the duck is in the water, notice that he seems to be completely dry. During the preening process, the Mallard will remove oil from a gland near the tail and coat his feathers with it, thus making the feathers on his back waterproof.
Preening Mallard photo taken in Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire.
