As I was going through some of my bird photos, I realized that a majority of them feature the male of the species. The males tend to be more loud and flashy, so I guess it’s not surprising that they draw my attention much of the time. The female often has a more delicate beauty and coloration, as is the case with this female Ring-necked duck (Aythya collaris) that I photographed recently.
I added an image of a male Ring-necked duck that I photographed the same day to allow you to make your own comparison and judgments. It may be a cliché, but it is nonetheless true that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
It must be tough being a male bird, having to look your best all the time so a female will select you for her mate. This guy looks like he could use a little sprucing up.
Beautiful birds, both. I love the eyering on the female. Makes her eyes ‘pop’ and gives them expression!
Great shot of the female !
Thanks. I have gotten shots of the male before, but this was my first decent shot of the female.
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