My friend, Jon, and I think a great name for a drink would be “Harley on the Rocks” – especially after seeing multiple Harlequin Ducks posing on the jetty for us during our last couple of trips. Who wouldn’t want to name a drink after this gorgeous bird?
My first Harlequins on the jetty!
I feel like I’ve been working my way up to the perfect Harlequin photo (though, I believe that my friend is the one who got it – see the very last photos in this set). I had great looks at them the first time that they were up on the jetty, but it was a bit overcast and lighting was only decent. Their bills seem to get a bit lost in the dull-water color.
Drake Harlequin on an overcast day
Male and female posing together on an overcast day
This past weekend, however, the sun was out and it made a huge difference in both the colors on the ducks and the blue water behind them.
Drake Harlequin on a sunny day
Male and female posing together on a sunny day
I’d like to get a bit of a lower angle next time, but for now, this will do!
Harlequin trio – one of my favorite photos
It can be difficult trying to get close while the ducks stay in place. We try to move while they are preening and not paying attention, however, sometimes they are spooked by other people who are walking by. This time, I was ready…
A Diving Duck diving into the water
Sometimes, they do stay in place and pose very nicely!
Drake Harlequin posing for me
Next time I go to Barnegat, I’ll be sure to order another Harley on the Rocks.