My first 2 banded ducks were both from Ruby Lake NWR, Shot a banded can at Bear River NWR in Utah, and a week later
shot a banded redhead from Ruby Lake NWR at Bear River NWR.
The only banded teal I've shot was a greenwing at Minto Flats near Fairbanks,
that teal was banded down the Yukon at...
The first banded Canvasback I shot was banded in Ruby Lake Nevada.
I shot that Can at Bear River National Wildlife Refuge in Utah in 1983.
High water is good news, with much of the Rocky Mtns (including Montana) in a regional drought.
When I hunted Utah, Shovelers tasted terrible as they feasted on brine shrimp.
Up in interior Alaska, they feed right next to the teal and as just as excellent eating as teal.
Especially grilled over alder coals instead of mountain house.
These photos were from yesterday's Montana refuge hike...
I hike a refuge every morning and on the hike back to the pickup,
I pick up litter. This drake can was curious about my white litter bag.
Unfortunately there was not enough light in the early morning.