On a peaceful morning at Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, two wood ducks glide gracefully across the calm waters of the pond, their colorful plumage catching the soft light as they swim side by side. The male, with his iridescent green head, chestnut chest, and striking blue wing patches, contrasts beautifully with the female’s more subtle shades of brown and gray, her delicate patterning emphasizing the elegance of her form. Their synchronized movements create gentle ripples across the reflective water, which mirrors the surrounding willow trees, reeds, and patches of sunlight filtering through the canopy. Occasionally, the ducks pause to dip their heads, foraging for small insects or seeds, before continuing their smooth, effortless journey along the pond. The sanctuary, alive with the calls of songbirds and the rustling of leaves in the breeze, provides a serene backdrop that highlights the harmony of wildlife in an urban oasis. The interplay of light and shadow on the water and the lush greenery along the banks frames the pair beautifully, drawing attention to the intimate connection and natural rhythm of these woodland ducks. Observing them, one notices the subtle nuances of their behavior—the gentle glances, the careful alignment, the quiet companionship—that make their presence feel almost ceremonial. This moment of two wood ducks swimming past in Calgary’s Inglewood Bird Sanctuary captures both the vibrancy and tranquility of urban wildlife, offering a glimpse into the quiet, elegant life of nature thriving within the city.