Most of the tufted ducks which had been spending the winter on the lake at West Park have now departed elsewhere for the breeding season. A handful remain, mostly drakes.
When I visited the park moderately early one quiet morning, a small group were asleep on the water, half way between the shore and the island. Even in this safe spot, sleeping ducks still need to beware of danger. There’s a half-open eye, keeping a literal look out for danger.