The two photos making up this gif are of the same crested duck, taken from the same spot. But as the duck moved slightly, those colorful feathers on the back side changed from a maroonish to a deep green and then back again. They’re called the speculum feathers. Many ducks have them and they are often iridescent, allowing changes in color based on wing position, angle of view and lighting conditions. Nikon D500 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 380mm) ISO 800, f/4 at 1/400th of a second
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The two photos making up this gif are of the same crested duck, taken from the same spot. But as the duck moved slightly, those colorful feathers on the back side changed from a maroonish to a deep green and then back again. They’re called the speculum feathers. Many ducks have them and they are often iridescent, allowing changes in color based on wing position, angle of view and lighting conditions.
A handsome duck and a very cool example of color change.
Thanks Rick.
Sean this is a marvelous and fascinating photo and I am amazed at the changing colors. Thanks for sharing it.
Larry Ehemann.
Thanks Larry. Thought I was seeing things at first.
Cool.
That image is a jaw-dropper, Sean!
Thanks Sue. Saw these guys in the Falklands too but didn’t notice the feathers changing colors.
Sorta like my hair color!
Very true ML.
Laurel
Yanny
Ha. Definitely Laurel.
—– Star Man on human driving :
—– Red means stop , green means go
—– Yellow means go very very fast .