The Lesser Scaup's common name is bluebill because of its bright-blue colored bill as seen in this photo. This photo was taken in February, 2001 in a drainage pond along a main highway in north central Austin. There was a small group of about 20 (about 10 each males and females) blue bills hanging out there for about two weeks, probably during migration. This duck breeds primarily in near the arctic, but do make as far south as the Gulf Coast during winter migration.

Photo Details: Nikon N90s, Sigma 800 5.6 AF, Fuji Provia F, f8@250, Manfrotto CF 4221 w/ Kirk King Cobra head, Nikon SB-28 fill flash -1.3 with fresnel extender.