There are at least ten pairs of Wood ducks in the vicinity of the big pond. These ducks nest in hollow trees, large nest boxes or abandoned woodpecker nests. One couple has selected our home as their nest location. Years ago a woodpecker managed to make a large hole in the wood siding of our home...apparently perfect for the Wood ducks as well! The female has been on her eggs for three weeks now, and has one more week to go. The male Wood duck has long disappeared, probably spending some time with his pals. So I figured she deserved to be in front in my painting! Besides, the subtle brown and gray hues are much more sophisticated than the wild colors of the male, right?