I don’t have any ducks that have chosen to make my lakeless backyard their residence, so it is always a pleasure when I get to hang out with some and snap a few pictures.

Such was the case on our recent trip to Florida, where I enjoyed the company of some Blue-winged Teal Ducks.

The male of the species has a black head with a striking white crescent, while his body has prints and patterns of beiges, browns and blacks.

The female is a bit more muted, but is still quite lovely.

Honestly, you might not give these ducks high beauty marks…that is…until they begin to lift their wings and you see the hint of color they typically keep concealed.

And then, when they spread their wings to fly, beautiful bands of blue and white and green are on full display.

As I was working on this post I thought, that really is a lot like people. There are many whose beauty we miss if we simply look at the surface. Those whose loveliness lies hidden at first glance, but, will take us by surprise if we are patient and give them a chance to soar. Okay…that was pretty sappy, but I do think it’s true.

Anyway, at the risk of being too “reflective” (please don’t unfollow me!) here is one final picture of this delightful duck.

And maybe I’ll have to see about adding a lake to the backyard. I’m sure the Labra-mutts wouldn’t object!