Thanks to everyone who answered my question, on the list and privately.
There were definitely the short answers and the long answers, and thanks to
all I know a little more now -- continuing to fall, of course, a bit short
of actual enlightenment.

There was a flock of six HARLEQUIN DUCKS in the cove here for a few days
last week; all appeared to be female. Now I realize it was probably a mixed
flock, with the males in eclipse (half dressed, as one of you described
it).

Sharron Huffman "We are confronted with
Herring Cove Originals insurmountable opportunities."
Ketchikan, Alaska -Pogo