Harlequin Ducks at LeHardy Rapids: Yellowstone’s Most Striking Spring Visitors
Harlequin ducks migrate to Yellowstone each spring to breed. Stopping at the convenient-to-observe location of LeHardy Rapids, birders and photographers flock to the area to see them each May.
While here, they are in their best plumage. With strikingly attractive markings, they are always a favorite for visitors to the park in spring. They have an unusual east-west migration pattern. These sea ducks fly inland to breed and then migrate back to their coastal homes. Attracted to fast-moving water, LeHardy Rapids and other vigorous mountain streams make the perfect stopover for them.
This image was taken in 2024 when I stopped by in the late afternoon and gave myself plenty of time to work on the shots I had in mind. With few other people there at the time, it was a relaxing 45 minutes to just enjoy time by the river and practice my passion for photography. Taking hundreds of photos, I had time for creative play between fast and slow shutter speeds and depth of focus. Of all the images, this one became my favorite.
I was there again in 2025, but not with as much time. In addition, there was an elk carcass in the river, and rangers were ready to close the area for a few days. However, the birds will be there until early June before returning to Vancouver. So, there might still be another chance to spend some creative time at LeHardy Rapids yet this year.
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Article by Janet Jones
Owner of Cody Journal and SnowMoon Photography
Janet has a rich history in Cody with her grandparents moving here in the late 1930s. Her grandfather started Wyoming Well Service. Janet is a writer, photographer, graphic designer and webmaster. Cody Journal and Cody Calendar blends her skills and talents with her love of the area.