| Harlequin Duck is one of the most spectacularly-plumaged birds in the world, and a regular visitor to the rocky shores off Long Island every winter. The winter of 2003-2004 was the best year for this species in my memory, with up to a dozen birds present at any given time throughout the season. |
| I filmed the birds on this page in January of 2004, and a week or so later I returned with my father, finding the birds again, this time in the vicinity of a large flock of Purple Sandpipers. Both of these were life birds for my Dad. and we were thrilled to find these winter favorites in such close proximity. |
| The Latin name of this species is delightfully descriptive: Histrionicus histrionicus. The person who put a name to this bird referred to the word histrionics, which refers to theatricality, with the implication of over-acting, excessive drama. Indeed, the plumage of the male Harlequin Duck is so striking as to seem unbelievable, and the bird may be accused of "over-acting"! |
| Copyright© Ken Allaire. All rights reserved. Reproduction, modification, or republication of the images or content contained herein without authorization for any purpose or to produce any product is a violation of the copyright herein and is strictly prohibited. |