hiya bucks in Bourne End, Flackwell Heath, Marlow, Wycombe, Wooburn December 2017 | Page 10

DUCKS PART 2 The definition of a duck contains some twists. It is only the females that are the ‘ducks’, whilst the male are ‘drakes’. The males’ showy plumage makes them stand out as their iridescent and bright green heads are unmistakable. The drakes vivid colours advertise their breeding qualities to the females. The brighter and more striking they are, the more genetic qualities they have. As a result of the ducks selecting only the best drakes to mate with, their chicks receive the highest quality genetic stock. The natural consequences are that these chicks then have the best chances to survive in a dangerous and difficult world. They can pass on their genetic codes and continue the species. However, when the breeding season has finished and the drakes have done their duties, their once brilliant head feathers become shabby, probably due to the drakes’ huge efforts and heavy responsibilities in caring for their families. Over the ensuing months, these old and dreary feathers are once again replaced in the moulting phase, just in time for the following courting, mating and breeding times. This contrasts to the more drab brown and cream females. So why is this? These more neutral markings suit the females’ lifestyles and break up the ducks’ outline when they are spending time near nest materials, twigs and ground debris. The birds are camouflaged when they are incubating Contact Andy on 01895 520184 | email [email protected] | www.ffes.org.uk Quality Painters & Decorators • Internal/External Works • Property Maintenance • Specialist in Wallpapering • High Quality Workmanship • Commercial & Domestic • Liability Insurance • It’s our Pleasure to give a free Quote Michael Boorman 01628 662833 07976 370268 [email protected] All Craftsmen over 20 years experience Highly Recommended in www.local.which.co.uk 10 | hiyabucks.com M U LT I P E S T 01753 720 380 [email protected] www.multipest.co.uk