A pictorial treat from the aviaries.
I just had to post this photo... I am never satisfied with my pictures of Hooded Merganser, and just as I pressed the button on this one; the Bufflehead popped up out of the water.
Despite the chill, most eclipse plumage species are just getting in a bit of flirting practice ready for spring. This poor Hoodie lost his female shortly after the breeding season, so I look forward to seeking him out the perfect mate for 2012. Until then, if they have him, he will have to make do with the Buffs!