Thanks everyone. I think I got lucky today, I think, as I was out in the day's dry spell, and just as I was taking these the sun came out I agree that those red eyes in the first are a bit freaky, and I was so pleased with quite how sharp the last one came out - I can never quite be sure until I get the pics on my computer - here's hoping for a few nice weekends in the near future...

Regards

Mat W

Hello again all. I was up at the pond with the DA* 300 today and grabbed a few more duck shots (apologies to anyone who doesn't like ducks). If I say so myself, the results were quite pleasing(; thought I would share a handful...

First up, the Pochard tries out his hypno-stare...



Mallard puffs his chest out (lovely boy...):



Mandarin looks like he's had a blow-dry... all a bit bouffant, but I think it's a look he can carry off...



Here's another caught mid-shake (presumably just stepped out of the salon):



Finally, the lady Mandarina poses for a portrait:



I hope you like them. C&C welcome as usual.

Best Regards

Mat W

Thanks again all. I have been back today with the DA* 300... the weather has not been quite as nice but some of the results look pretty good... I'll process a couple and put them into the forum (with apologies for flooding the place with ducks...:shock

Regards

Mat W

Cambridge for me. Not really sure why. Think it's because they are generally regarded as the underdogs (this year at least)...

Mat

I agree - a good set of shots. As others have said, such a long way from we normally see here where I live... I think the third takes the prize for me.

Regards

Mat W

Gosh he's a strange looking chap... well shot though - I guess he's very small. I think I prefer the first one of the two. Nice work!

Regards

Mat W

Lovely shots Don - I like the second and fourth. The Lorikeet has fantastic colours! Good stuff!

Regards

Mat

No idea what kind of duck that is..., but it's a nice looking bird! You're right about the green tree reflection as well. I hope to get some of that at the pond in Richmond, but the trees have been pruned and not grown back yet...

Mat

Thanks Tim - that's exactly what I thought too Don't see that every day

Mat

Many thanks folks! (and thanks for correcting the typo). Red Crested Pochard it is!

I don't think I'll ever get tired of Mandarin ducks. They're so photogenic!

Regards

Mat W