Hardhead

With my current level of swanling obsession, it took a while to register that the ducks in the local pond are neither Maned nor Pacific Black Ducks which are common around here, but Hardheads, a species I've never seen. There are ten and have been in the pond for a week at least. They stay well back from the swans. They are small, elegant ducks with a very neat diving style, especially when compared to swans diving!

I believe these are males with the white eyes. Their other name is White-eyed Duck.

A pair of Hardheads preening. I hope this means ducklings.