Heavy nest loss can occur during moderate drought. Canvasback hens will desert their nest if it gets flooded, hit by racoons or dumped in. Has been completely protected in some years. Winter in S. New England. Stage in N. plains in October before migrating to wintering grounds in November.
Drakes molt in large numbers on Swan Lake, Manitoba.
Feed on plants and crustaceans. Tend to prefer plant material. Fast flyers, well shaped V's, direct flights without the weaving of Redheads. Probably about 500,000 . Has been totally protected during some years.