A ruddy shelduck grooms its feathers on a wooden boardwalk next to a pond. The duck is predominantly orange-brown with a pale orange head and neck, black wings and tail, and a patch of green on its flank. It is positioned on the right side of the frame, facing left, with its head tucked into its back. The pond behind the duck is green and reflects the surrounding foliage. Lily pads, some with pink flowers, float on the surface of the water. In the background, a large rock formation is visible. The boardwalk is made of wooden planks, and sunlight casts shadows across it. The scene appears to be outdoors in a natural or park-like setting.