Welcome to the water’s edge.
Where feathers shimmer, water reflects the sky, and calls echo through the marshlands—ducks and geese are some of the most charismatic birds in nature. As a wildlife and nature photographer, I’m drawn to their seasonal rhythms, bold personalities, and striking beauty.
📸 Why Ducks and Geese Make Stunning Photo Subjects
These waterfowl aren’t just common—they’re captivating. Whether I’m lying at water level or tucked into a blind at sunrise, I find ducks and geese endlessly photogenic. Some of their most photo-worthy qualities include:
- Vivid and colorful plumage
- Expressive behaviors during courtship and parenting
- Graceful flight sequences over water
- Seasonal changes that transform the entire wetland scene
From a lone Wood Duck drake paddling through golden reflections to a flurry of geese taking off at dusk—each moment offers something different.
🐦 Species Frequently Featured in My Wildlife Photography
Over the years, I’ve documented a wide range of duck and goose species in their natural habitats across the Upper Midwest and beyond:
- Mallards – Bold and beautiful in the right light
- Common Goldeneye – Known for their piercing stare and unique head shape
- Wood Ducks – Full of color, charm, and charisma
- Canada Geese – Majestic in flight and striking in silhouette
- Snow Geese – Especially captivating in large migratory flocks
- Northern Pintail, Blue-winged Teal, American Wigeon – Elegant and elusive
Each bird brings its own story—and I try to capture those moments as authentically as possible.
🧭 The Magic of Migration
Ducks and geese are migratory wonders. Twice a year, they travel thousands of miles between breeding and wintering grounds—many passing through the Mississippi Flyway and St. Croix River watershed.
This migratory behavior creates a dynamic, seasonal opportunity for photographers and birders alike. Fall and spring offer prime viewing for flocks in motion, while late summer brings rich plumage and territorial drama.
