Chasing a Long-tailed Duck

Overland Park, KS:  Yesterday my co-worker and fellow birder Christine tipped me off that there was a Long-tailed Duck reported at Smithville Lake in Smithville, Missouri.  Being only about 40 minutes from there and not having to be to work until noon, I decided to chase the duck.  Christine wanted to see it as well so we made plans to meet at the Camp Branch Marina where the bird had been seen recently.  I was excited since this would be a new life bird for me.   I had missed a Long-tailed Duck a couple of years ago in Kansas so I really wanted to see this bird.  Into the guides and software I dove finding every picture and piece of info I could find on short notice so I wouldn't overlook the bird when I got there.  It was reported as a female that was between summer and winter plumage.  A flotilla of ducks was underneath a nearby bridge about 300 yards away.  I started scanning this bunch: Male Common Goldeneye, female Hooded Merganser, male Common Merganser, another Common Goldeneye, no Long-tailed duck though.  I knew that a lot of waterfowl was still on the pocket of water so I picked another group to scan.  This group was only about 100 yards off shore.  I always seem to start with the furthest group instead of the closest, and of course this closer group had the Long-tailed Duck.  I tried to get some photos of the bird but I am still learning my camera and the photo is blurry but okay for ID purposes.  I sent the picture to my main birding compatriot, Matt Gearheart, and he pointed out that the bird might actually be a male that was inbetween plumages.  For once ice on a lake was a welcome thing- With such a little amount of open water the duck is staying in one small area making it easier to find. 

     When I returned home I reviewed my field guides, and sure enough it was a male Long-tailed Duck in between plumages.  This is why I love birding so much.  No matter how long someone has been birding there are always new challenges and something to learn. This made for a very good day at work for me and I think I was even a little fiesty since I checked another bird off my lifelist.  Sorry co-workers for having to deal with the excitement.  Enjoy the weekend and happy birding.

Male Long-tailed duck in between plumages

Christine looking at her lifer Long-tailed Duck

Common Mergansers in-flight

Small ice opening to concentrate birds

Mature Bald Eagle in-flight

Bald Eagle bombing Canada Geese