Ruddy Duck
Ruddy duck (Oxyura jamaicensis)
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Most duck species have one or two characteristics that make them different. But with ruddy ducks, almost everything is unusual.
Appearance: The male ruddy duck's upper body, neck and sides are a deep chestnut. He has a dark tail and often stands upright. Dark brown wings, a white belly, a sky-blue bill, white cheeks and a black-capped head. Females cheek patch has a single dark line through it. She has a slate-grey bill, no black cap and a grey-brow body.
Breeding: Ruddy duck males migrate to breeding grounds before females pair shortly after. More aggressive duck and defends breeding and nesting territory. Average clutch size is eight large eggs. Incubation is about 25 days. Ducklings are able to fly at 42 to 49 days.
Habitat: Breed on wetlands of various sizes. Prefer extensive vegetation and ample open water.
Range: Primarily breed throughout the prairie pothole and parkland regions and winter along the U.S. coasts.
Diet: Feed on aquatic plant life in shallow water.
Interesting facts: When confronted with danger, ruddy ducks prefer to dive rather than fly. Although abundant in summer, few people get a glimpse of them. Ruddy ducks are shy, spending much of their time surrounded by the cattails that grow in shallow water at the edge of wetlands.
