Smew's a pretty boy then!

Nearby Bramfield is Amwell gravel pits, a location I have only recently started to visit, and a pleasing mix of flooded pits, reedbeds, and woodland.
Upon arrival conversations overheard seemed to be concentrating on a Bittern seen the day before which seemed to be the goal of many there. It's another elusive bird and one I personally have only seen on two to three occasions previously. An extended period of observation from the view point and one of the hides produced no result but there was a lovely assemblage of gadwalls, tufted ducks, cormorants, and widgeon amongst others.
I then visited the larger of the two hides and within a couple of minutes was rewarded with the sight of a male and female Smew. These really are an enchanting species,and unlike many other bird species, the female is, I find, equally as pretty. The male was in his beautifully contrasting black and white plumage; the white being extremely useful in finding him between his regular and constant diving amongst the fronds and roots of the trees adjacent to the island they were exploring. His pied colouring stood out well against the dark water and he resembled a simple but exquisite line drawing in the midst of a darker, Autumnal backdrop. The female followed close, diving with equal compunction, but offering a fine view of the distinctive red-head and soft pastels of her feathers.
A beautiful waterfowl with almost an ornamental flourish.