There’s usually a flotilla of Ruddy Ducks (Oxyura jamaicensis) on Prospect Park Lake this time of year. This female was hanging out solo on Sylvan Water in Green-Wood for at least five days when I took these pictures.
(Beaten gold effect via reflection of nearby Norway Maples.)
Backyard and Beyond 
The view with the gold reflection is spectacular! This begs to be painted a la Klimt.
Good pictures of the Ruddy Duck. This is a fun site, Matthew. When I visit the kids in Brooklyn maybe we could hire you to take us on a wide-awake-life stroll?
Yes, you certainly can. Winter is of course quieter, life-wise, but we can always stir some things up…