Duck.. I think

Finally found some water birds today. Took lots of pics but they weren't much good. This one was pretty clear so I chose it. I need some hints on how to get REALLY good clear pics from some of you experts out there.

This is a good clear pic.. But it lacks the vibrance of some of the ones I see on here.


EDIT. I am not sure this is a mallard. All the other ducks were. I put another pic of it on flickr here if someone wants to let me know.