Some bird species are very territorial and will chase off intruders, while others are content to peacefully coexist with members of other species. Canada Geese (Branta canadensis) are definitely in the latter category—they barely reacted when this Ring-necked Duck (Aythya collaris) passed through the middle of their flock, weaving his way in and around the much larger birds.
I love to capture images with multiple species in a single frame. In this case, I am curious why the duck chose to swim through the geese rather than going around them. Was he courageous and bold? Was he stubborn and determined?
How will you face the upcoming new year? Here’s hoping that, like this little duck, you will be able to move confidently forward towards your goals, mindful of the obstacles that face you, but unbowed by them.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Hopefully, we can learn to be more like the geese in 2020. Happy New Year, Mike.
Thanks, Dan. Patience and tolerance are definitely good things. Best wishes for a wonderful 2020, Dan.
Great question, Mike ! I think I’ll be likely to imagine this bright-eyed little duck in this scene as I encounter new situations in the coming year!