Duck Versus Frog in Bitterroot

A battle occurred at the Lee Metcalf National Refuge this past week. A Hooded Merganser was quietly fishing, looking for small fish and other edibles, when it spotted a huge morsel and reached underwater to get it. However, it reached back.

The frog stretched out to block the duck's beak. And it began the struggle. The duck didn't usually get this kind of reaction from a fish.

Then, the struggle stopped.

Our photographer watched the duck float away and bullfrog was back underwater. The Hooded Merganser will look for a less lively meal.