Leaping into the air, this startled pair of wood ducks leaves the security of the small marsh pond, and heads skyward.  I spent some time in this marsh, and when I waded up on these birds this is the scene I encountered.  They are a beautiful bird, even in pencil; the color they display is breathtaking.  I enjoy drawing in pencil, there seems to be more of a casual air about it.  In color, I try and convey the actual color I see.  In pencil, the viewer can imagine the color and interrupt it anyway they want.  Drawing in pencil has always fascinated me, as it seems to help hone the skills when using color, with a little less pressure.  I remember the day I saw these birds, it was a perfect fall day, or at least it seemed so to me.  So I have tried to recreate this small memory, and hope you enjoy it also.