The crest on Crested Ducks arose from a genetic mutation specifically bred into the bird by duck breeders. The mutation is a deformed spot on the skull which gives rise to the topnotch. It seems a quarter of all Crested Ducks die when they hatch because the crest is not properly formed and leaves the duckling’s brain fatally exposed. They are cute though.
Crested Duck (Lophonetta specularioides)…
December 31, 2011
Animals, Birds crested, duck, photography 1 Comment
Dec 31, 2011 @ 20:10:16
Great #365….hope its not the last! Happy New Year to you, my friend!