Amazing Harlequin Ducks in Yellowstone NP
When we planned our trip to Montana/Wyoming for early May of last year, there were a few things we expected. We expected to see bison, maybe coyotes, beautiful scenery, and hoped for bears and other animals. We expected the weather to be chilly. And, we planned to stay in a comfortable hotel, eat good meals, and DRIVE A LOT! We didn’t expect to see the amazing Harlequin Ducks in Yellowstone NP. Thanks to our guide, we did!
Honestly, we were not really familiar with the specialness of this experience until afterwards. It was pouring down rain, well, slush, and it was cold. But, we were willing to give photographing them a try at the encouragement of Chris Daniels, our guide. He seemed pretty enthusiastic about them, so why not? (I really believe this is when my friend and wildlife photographer, Amy, became a bird nerd!)
This is what the Audubon has to say about these gorgeous birds.
“Turbulent northern waters are favored by this strikingly patterned little duck. It is often found in summer on rushing rivers, diving and swimming against the current, climbing easily on steep and slippery rocks above the water. When moving inland, pairs of Harlequins usually fly low, following every bend of the river rather than taking overland shortcuts. In winter, seems to choose the roughest coastal water, with rocks pounded by the surf. Studies show that many adult Harlequins have had broken bones, probably a result of their rough surroundings.”
I can testify to the above! See video below!
Rainy, slushy day at the LeHardy Rapids in Yellowstone NP. Perfect for photographing harlequin ducks.
We set up offshore of the LeHardy Rapids, and stayed for about an hour. It rained, it slushed, and I think it even snowed a bit. Somehow, we neglected to bring raincoats for us, nor rain hoods for our cameras. (Well, Chris knew to wear a raincoat.) However, we all survived as did our cameras, and had a wonderful time photographing these beautiful birds. They are only around a few weeks each year, so the timing was perfect. It was really quite exhilarating.
The females certainly had something to say!
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As a published, featured northern California fine art photographer living in the greater Sacramento area, I specialize in fine art landscape, nature, and still life photography. My style is authentic, fresh and personality-driven. I offer several educational opportunities including workshops and photography mentoring. You can learn about them by going to SERVICES. While currently living in rural northern California with my husband and a couple thousand walnut trees, I post regularly to Instagram.
Please CONTACT ME with any questions or to schedule your learning session.
Serving Yuba City/Marysville, East Nicolaus, Wheatland, Lincoln, Woodland, Davis, Roseville, Rocklin, and the greater Sacramento area.
(530) 633-7575
Join other advanced photographers who are recognized for their technical and creative work. Learn more HERE.
As my interests evolved in photography subjects, I became interested in wildlife and, ultimately, birds. Because birds are everywhere, they are just such a great subject. Each year during the winter there are thousands of sandhill cranes in the valley who over-winter here.