Mallards in Portland

This afternoon I stopped by Willamette Park to get some pictures of a rainbow. There were many beautiful rainbows that I photographed today. As I was packing up to go home, I noticed a pair of mallards in the parking lot. I decided to shoot a few last minute photos before I headed home. I was surprised that the ducks let me get so close. They came up to me as if to greet me or maybe they were begging for food?

I spent several minutes with these cool ducks and they would sit perfectly still so I could get very clear photos with my macro lens. I remember being only inches from these mallards. I believe birds have been conditioned to know that photographers are not a threat. I have always said that I prefer shooting birds when it is done with a camera. It is always an amazing feeling to gain the trust of a wild animal.