There are no Harlequin Ducks in Kootenay Lake.
Gaining its name from the male’s almost comical plumage, this small diving duck prefers a cold turbulent stream to a warm tranquil lake. Although the harlequin does not visit the Lake, it can be seen from a road that links West and South Arms. Well, all of this is true in the summertime; in the wintertime (and in drabber plumage see comment, below), harlequins head to Pacific coastal waters.
The plumage of the male harlequin is almost gaudy—it is important to look good.
And this is true whether one is seen coming or going.
Great shots Alistair ! ! ! I never have seen them so yours are a welcome sight.
Thanks.
Bill
Beautiful photos Alistair.
Love the Leg stretch in the Grebe header.
Larry, that picture was from a posting made in October 2011 called, See my toes.
Based on personal observations from when I lived on the coast, Harlequins aren’t drabber in winter. The males are just as gaudy then as in the spring. It’s possible that males go into eclipse in late summer/fall before they return to the coast, but I haven’t seen them at that point in their cycle.
Carolee, thank you. You are correct. I just checked the guides and the harlequin male will assume drabber plumage in July, but switches back to the breeding plumage in September before heading for the Coast the following month.