Wood Duck | Aix sponsa | Conservation Status: Least Concern |WODU

The memories of my youth include waterfowling with the Elders in my tribe. Roger Tory Peterson, one of the most famous naturalist and author of the outstanding Peterson Field Guides, said that conservation begins with identification. In my case chasing waterfowl up and down the flyways in North America birthed a waterfowl conservationist and a passion for birding and nature photography.

The thrill of the chase when I journey afield has always been a special part of my life. My hope is that the images captured in my life list gallery will inspire others to focus on birding, nature photography, and conservation.

Wood Ducks have been a long time favorite of mine to chase. Indeed I enjoy the seclude habitat they call home.  Their elusive nature makes for a challenging target so trophy shots are all the more rewarding.

For the past several years I’ve adopted an annual ritual of building and installing duck boxes at a private refuge.  When I’m crafting wood into nesting boxes and when I journey afield to install them, my mind reflects back on the days of my youth and the special times spent with my waterfowl mentors. Those moments were the seeds of inspiration that birthed a waterfowl conservationist.