BackdoorArts
Senior Member
That's the thing with field guides, you usually only get one or two views to choose from and they'll usually go with the more distinguishing display. Some ducks' heads are more oddly shaped than others, and with some it's a simple display. If the head and back feather patterns match when you're looking it up then it's a pretty good bet you have your duck. I did a quick image search and found more photos that look like yours than with the arched head.
I love the Sibley's guide I have on my iPhone. Wasn't cheap at $20, but the app gives me immediate access without a book in my pocket, and they have various displays, including in-flight. In the case of this bird it shows the arched head in the resting pose and the rounded head in-flight, so you can see that both are possible.
I was wondering how you guys were dealing with the snow out there. I guess the answer is, "As best we can". LOL
