Wood Duck in Swiss Spring Mist

Warm golden light spills across a Swiss pond where thick mist rests on the water surface. A male wood duck with iridescent green head and chestnut breast feathers swims through a cluster of pale green lily pads. The bird's eye is wide and dark, fixed forward with sharp alertness. Water droplets bead on the wet, waxy leaves, catching the low sun. Ripples spread from the duck's movement, distorting the reflection of the misty sky. The background dissolves into soft gray fog, isolating the vibrant plumage against the cool, early spring water. One feather edge catches the light, glowing orange against the shadowed lily pad.