Here is a link for the 2016 duck stamp competition artwork.

Birds eligible for this competition are Canada Goose, Brant, Northern Shoveler, Red-breasted Merganser, and Steller's Eider. Images have not been color-corrercted.

"There are 152 art entries this year (#23 does not exist), a fairly low number. Curiously, over a dozen of these entries also illustrate a "secondary" bird species in the background, stressing the Migratory Bird Treaty centennial and the bird species beyond waterfowl that benefit from stamp investments. (Red-winged Blackbird seems to be an illustrated favorite.)" -- This clip is taken from the electronic newsletter 'Wingtips,' published by Friends of the Migratory Bird/Duck Stamp. Join this support group at www.friendsofthestamp.org/about-us/how-to-join/

I've scrolled through the paintings. They are not numbered, nor are artist names included. There is some excellent work here, most likely including paintings by Minnesota's three Hautman brothers, Jim, Joe, and Bob. They finished 1-2-3 last year, with Joe, the oldest of the three, winning for the fifth time. The brothers' combined total of first-place awards is 11 in the past 25 years.

Inclusion of a non-waterfowl species puts the birds in context. It makes a big difference, and is a good idea. Can you find the eagle?

Can you identify the Hautman work? Can you pick the winner?