Goosanders, sleepy Pochards and even a Goldeneye on river Rhine today

Several pairs and a few groups of male Goosanders could be seen today in two or three bays along the river Rhine near Düsseldorf, easily 15 to 20 individuals in total. If they stay in the vicinity that would be promising prospects for the upcoming breeding season. The water level is relatively high at the moment and the birds came quite close to the shore.

Some sleepy Pochard drakes in their full plumage were also quite close to the shore. They took a few scrutinising glances at me but then decided to continue bobbing along in peace. Their three-coloured beaks with the beautiful blue stripe were mostly hidden in their plumage, but the bright red irises of their eyes glowed impressively.

In the end, even a Goldeneye paid me a brief visit. These are actually sea ducks and are pretty rare guests so far inland.

Quite unexpectedly, it was a wonderful day for waterfowl, which gave me great shots of these three beautiful species.