This post is for the Camera Critter Meme
Trip Part 7This post really should have been added in to Part 4 of our New Zealand trip. I was going to omit it entirely but looked back at my photos and decided they were too interesting to just leave out.
Mirror Lakes are on the road from Te Anau to Milford Sound. They are only a few steps off the road and there is a well-made board walk along the water's edge. On a clear and still day the reflections in these little lakes are said to be very beautiful. However, the day we were there it was raining most of the time and grey. Only the parts sheltered from the breeze reflected back the close vegetation but the colors of the water and the vegetation were very beautiful.
There were numbers of ducks on the water. (If I am wrong with these ID's will some New Zealander correct me please!) This is commonly known as a Grey Duck and is a sub-species of the Pacific Black Duck which we have in Australia. It's Maori name is Parera. Unfortunately it is listed as threatened because of loss of habitat and competition from introduced Mallards. Mallards also interbreed with these ducks and the Mallards are dominant.
This is a diving duck - the New Zealand Scaup. It's Maori name is Papango and it is sometimes called a Black Teal. I had a hard time getting a good photo and pose - every time I thought I had one nicely arranged in my view finder it dived out of sight!
How very beautiful! Your shot of the foggy hills is really wonderful, and I love the ducks. The last shot made me laugh! Have a great weekend.
ReplyDeletelove the ducks and reflections - and the fog in the first photo! glad you didn't skip 'em!
ReplyDeleteHi Mick,
ReplyDeleteNo this post deserved it's own write. It has a different take than Post 4. Mallards are everywhere in this world. It just shocks me how prolific they are. I've heard of the habitat loss and that a lot of Kiwi's are working to keep their area pristine, but it can be a challenge. My friend bought a house in Wellington and I hear so many wonderful stories out of this country. I really have enjoyed reading your posts.
How beautiful! Fantastic photos. Glad you didn't leave them out.
ReplyDeleteSuch beautiful scenery and delightful ducks!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful scenery, reflections and ducks. Glad you included that last one too, now you see me now...
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed reliving our trip to New Zealand through your pictures of your trip.
ReplyDeleteYou asked about the adult elephant seals, the mothers have weaned the pups and gone back to sea. There are a few males around and some females in molt but the pups are on their own.
That scenery is gorgeous, Mick! What a great place to visit. Fantastic duck photos!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous!!
ReplyDeleteMy Critter post, have a blessed Sunday!
I enjoyed this post and the photos. I love the ducks and the scenery is gorgeous. Thanks for sharing you trip.
ReplyDeletemagnificant photo's....awesome reflection!!
ReplyDelete