Northern Pintail Ducks | Purely Poultry Northern Pintail Ducks Anas acuta Pintails are attractive birds, with long, graceful necks. The drakes have particularly striking markings. The Pintail drake has long, black, central tail feathers that come to a point, giving rise to the name "pintail." Drakes also have a white neck and underparts, a chocolate brown head, and lighter brown backs and wings. Hens are duller-colored, and lack the bright white stripe. They are brown and white mottled. Both sexes have grey bills, legs, and feet, and a graceful silhouette. Range: Northern Pintail Ducks have a wide range across North America and Eurasia. In the US, they range from Alaska to the southern US, often nesting in open areas with shallow waters in the northern parts of the country. Habitat: As waterfowl, Northern Pintail Ducks prefer areas with open, shallow water, and will often be found in flooded agricultural fields. They prefer areas with low vegetation. Status in the Wild: Partly due to their wide distribution, Northern Pintail Ducks are not threatened. However, their numbers have been decreasing in the last few decades.

Status in Aviculture: Northern Pintail Ducks are common in aviculture. Breeding and Incubation: Breeding takes place from April until June. Both sexes reach sexual maturity at around one year of age. Nests are shallow scrapes in dry areas, among vegetation, and are lined with plant material. The average clutch consists of 7-9 eggs, and hens incubate them for 22-24 days. Lifespan: The longest recorded lifespan for a Northern Pintail Duck is 27 years. However, the average lifespan for a wild duck is around two years, and around 10 years for a wild duck in captivity. Mature Weight: Pintails are relatively large ducks, with males weighing one to three pounds, and females just slightly smaller at one to two and a half pounds. Housing Requirements: Because Northern Pintail Ducks are migratory, they will fly away if not kept in an enclosure. They need water for mating, and as dabbling ducks, for eating. Diet: Dabbling ducks, such as the Northern Pintail, feed mainly from the surface and edges of the water, rather than by diving.

They eat insects and plant materials in the shallows of the water. Northern Pintails feed mostly around dusk. Miscellaneous: In the wild, when not breeding, these ducks will form large mixed flocks with other species of ducks. Drakes have a call sometimes described as a "flute-like" whistle; hens have a raspier quack. Related Products Types of Ducks - Different Types of Ducks Types of Ducks – Different Types of Ducks 14299 The most interesting and comprehensive facts and pictures of different types of ducks including their habitats, diet, physical appearance, and behavior. Duck is actually a common name given to the species that belongs to the family of birds, Anatidae. Swans and geese also fall under the same category. These types of birds are generally found in the lake water or sea water. For the feeding purposes, ducks heavily rely on marine life such as aquatic plants, insects, small amphibians, worms and mollusks. Ducks have been categorized into different groups such as whistling ducks, teal ducks, and wood ducks. These are monogamous species and they breed only once in a year. Ducks build their nests before the breeding season starts.

These birds are considered to be very caring and kind toward humans and they like to be approached.Ducks reside in almost all parts of the world except in Antarctica. Some of the species are found to be migratory birds whereas others are not. They like populated areas and are not afraid to make their presence feel amongst others. For the reason that ducks do not fly, they are too susceptible to the sea predators including crocodiles, fish eating birds, and herons. Ducks are normally monogamous birds in that they make partners for a long period of time. These birds usually breed no more than one time in a year. Types of Ducks Diving Ducks Diving duck Diving duck is one of the most common types of ducks that mostly feed by diving below the water surface. These birds are also called pochards and scaups. These birds are also placed in a subfamily of Anthyinae, and are considered to be the close relative of dabbling ducks. These species are endemic to the Northern Hemisphere. Diving duck is primarily found in the fresh water. Unlike other species, these types of ducks can certainly fly. These ducks are migratory birds and they are often found to travel large distances in one journey.

These birds cannot walk on land as properly as dabbling ducks. Canvasback Canvasback The Canvasback belongs to the family of Aythya valisineria and is one of the North American Diving Ducks. The length of these types of ducks measures around 48 – 56 cm (19 – 22 inches). Canvasback weighs around 862 – 1,588 g (1.90 – 3.50 lb). The wingspan measures about 79 – 89 cm (31 – 35 inches). These birds have a long beautiful neck, along with a black bill and brownish tail. It has bluish grey legs. Canvasback Breeding Facts They breed all throughout North America. Population is found to be declining due to the habitat destruction. The clutch size comprise of 5 – 11 eggs. The eggs are slightly green in color. Canvasback Diet Facts These kinds of ducks predominantly feed on seeds, leaves, aquatic plants, weeds, roots, tubers, snails, insect larvae, and buds. Common Pochard The Common Pochard is associated with the family of Aythya ferina.

These ducks are medium sized birds and they have red head and red eyes together with grayish back. These types of ducks frequently migrate in winter toward the Western Europe. These species primarily feed on small insects, small fish, and molluscs. These birds mostly feed at night. They are extensively found in the Eastern England, lowland Scotland, Northern Ireland, Russia, and Scandinavia. Redhead The Redhead belongs to the family of Aythya Americana and is a medium sized bird. The length of the redhead duck measures around 37 cm. The wingspan is about 84 cm long. These types of ducks have yellow eyes, red head and grey back. One of the unique characteristics of redhead ducks is that the females often lay eggs in the nests of other ducks. They make new partners for each year. These birds are primarily found in the Northeastern United States, Caribbean, and Mexico. These species are the migratory birds. They mainly feed on aquatic plants which comprise more than 75% of the whole diet. Ring-necked Duck Ring-necked Duck The Ring-necked Duck belongs to the family of Aythya collaris and is a native of North America. These types of ducks are close relatives of tufted duck.

Ring-necked duck has grey bill with a white band and yellow eyes. They breed in wooded lakes in the Northern United States and Canada, and are mostly found in ponds and rivers. They predominantly feed on aquatic insects, plants, seeds, and small fish. The females lay 8 – 10 eggs. Females stay with their chicks until their first flight. Ring-necked duck is a migratory bird. Hardhead Hardhead The Hardhead belongs to the family of Aythya australis, and is also called white-eyed duck. These types of ducks are widespread all throughout southeast Australia and New Zealand. These ducks dive deep into the water for feeding and is observed to stay underneath for a minute or two. They feed on large number of aquatic creatures including plants, weeds and seeds. Hardhead ducks like to stay in still water, lakes, and swamps. These birds hardly come on land. The length of these species measures around 45 – 55 cm. Baer’s Pochard Baer’s Pochard Baer’s Pochard belongs to the family of Aythya baeri, and is typically found in Eastern Asia. These types of ducks are close relatives of Ferruginous duck.

These birds breed all throughout Russia, China, Japan, Vietnam, and India. The length of Baer’s Pochard measures about 41 – 46 cm. These birds had been considered as endangered species in 2008. They are generally found in coastal wetlands, lakes, and ponds. Ferruginous Duck Ferruginous Duck The Ferruginous Duck belongs to the family of Aythya nyroca, and is also known as Fudge Duck. These species breed in southern and Eastern Europe and Asia. Ferruginous ducks occasionally migrate to the North Africa. Males are larger in comparison to the females. They usually travel in flocks with tufted ducks. They feed on aquatic plants, small insects, small molluscs, and fish. Madagascar Pochard The Madagascar Pochard is associated with the family of Aythya innotata. These types of ducks were found in the Central Plateau of Madagascar back in 1991. The population of Madagascar pochard was observed to be declined in 1940’s and 1950’s due to the habitat destruction.

Rice cultivation and burning of vegetation are one of the widespread causes of the Madagascar’s extinction from several lakes. New Zealand New Zealand Scaup The New Zealand Scaup belongs to the family of Aythya novaeseelandiaei, and is also claimed to be Black Steal. These diving ducks are native to New Zealand. They have yellow eyes and dark greenish head. These birds submerge for about 30 – 40 seconds. They feed on small insects, mussels, and aquatic plants. These types of ducks are normally found in the fresh lake-water. These species do not migrate. The nesting period lasts from October to March and the females lay 5 – 8 eggs. The incubation (keeping warm) period lasts for 4 weeks. Tufted Duck Tufted Duck The Tufted Duck belongs to the family of Aythya fuligula and is a medium sized bird with a population of almost 1 million. These types of ducks have bluish grey bill. They are widely distributed all throughout Northern Eurasia, United States, and Canada. They are the migratory birds and most of them travel towards Western Europe and southern Asia. They build their habitats nearby lake-waters.

Tufted ducks primarily feed on small insects, and mollusks. Greater Scaup Greater Scaup The Greater Scaup belongs to the Aythya marila family, and is a medium sized bird. These types of ducks dive down into the water in search of marine creatures. They are closely related to the Lesser Scaup. They usually spend their summer in Canada, Alaska, Siberia, and northern Europe. They migrate toward North America in winter. Greater scaup are greater in size as compared to other species. They have yellow eyes and bluish bill. After reaching 2 years of age, they start breeding and constructing nests. The clutch size comprises of 6 – 9 eggs. The hatching period lasts from 24 – 28 days. These types of ducks mainly feed on molluscs, insects, and plants. Few of the notable predators of greater scaup includes foxes, owls, skunks, coyotes, raccoons and humans. The length of greater scaup measures around 39 – 56 cm (15 – 22 in). The wingspan is about 71 – 84 cm (28 – 33 in) long.

These species weigh around 726 – 1,360 g (1.60 – 3.0 lb). The females lay 6 – 9 olive colored eggs. The incubation (keeping warm) period lasts from 24 to 28 days. The chicks fledge out after 45 – 45 days. Greater scaup can fly at a speed of 121 km/h (75 mph). They are mostly hunted in Germany, France, Denmark, and United Kingdom. Distribution and Habitat Facts These types of ducks spend their summer in Alaska, Siberia, and Europe. They subsist in Aleutian Islands, Caspian Sea, Yellow sea, Central Europe, China Sea, Coastal Bays, Great lakes, Peninsula, Baltic Sea, Adriatic Sea, Arctic Sea, British Isles, Hudson Bay, Baja Peninsula, Lake Winnipeg, and Yukon. Lesser Scaup Lesser Scaup The Lesser Scaup is a member of the Aythya affinis family. Lesser Scaup is a migratory bird and is endemic to the Central America.

The length of these types of ducks measures around 38 – 48 cm (15 – 19 in). The average length of these birds is about 41.7 – 43 cm (16.4 – 19 in). Lesser scaup weighs around 454 – 1,089 grams (1.00 – 2.40 lb). The average weight of male is about 820 g (1.8 lb). The wingspan measures about 19 – 20 cm (7.5 – 7.9 in). The bill is 3.6 – 4.3 cm (1.4 – 1.7 in) long. Where do Lesser Scaup live? They build their habitats near lakes and ponds. These species inhabits in Alaska, Canada, western Montana, James Bay, great Lakes, McKenzie River, Caribbean Islands, Mexico, West Indies, Bermuda, Columbia, Central America, Rocky Mountains, China, Greenland, Trinidad, Venezuela, and Hawaiian Islands Japan. White-winged Duck White-winged Duck The White-winged Duck belongs to the family of Asarcornis scutulata and is a large species.

Males are larger and heavier than the females. The length of the white winged duck measures around 66 – 81 cm (26 – 32 in). The wingspan is about 116 – 153 cm (46 – 60 in). The males weigh around 2.95 – 3.9 kg (6.5 – 8.6 lb). The weight of the females is about 1.95 – 3.05 kg (4.3 – 6.7 lb). Amongst all other different types of ducks, these birds primarily feed on small insects, rice, fish, and snails. These species are extensively distributed all over Southeast Asia, Bangladesh, India, Vietnam, Thailand, and Burma. These are considered to be an endangered species. Marbled Duck Marbled Duck The Marbled Duck belongs to the family of Marmaronetta angustirostris and is classified as a diving duck. Marbled duck is a medium sized duck that breeds in the Mediterranean Region, Spain, Africa, Iraq, Turkey, Armenia, India, Azerbaijan, China and Israel. The females lay 7 – 10 eggs.

The length of marbled duck is about 39 – 42 cm (15 – 17 in). There are more than 40,000 species of marbled ducks around the world. Hunting and habitat destruction led the population of these birds vanish away from the major lakes. Pink-Headed Duck Pink-headed Duck The Pink-headed Duck belongs to the family of Rhodonessa caryophyllacea and was formerly found in the plains of India and Bangladesh. Few naturalists suggested that the pink headed duck was also found in Myanmar. These types of ducks are 41 – 43 cm. They have long necks and a paler bill. The clutch size consists of 6 – 7 eggs. The eggs measure around 1.71 – 1.82 inches by length. The width of the pink-headed eggs is 1.61 – 1.7 inches. They are the non migratory birds and generally feed on aquatic plant and molluscs. These species reside in Brahmaputra. Spot billed Duck Spot-billed Duck The Spot-billed Duck Brahmaputra is a member of a Anas poecilorhyncha family, and is also known as Spotbill.

These types of ducks primarily breed in tropical Asia. These birds are endemic to Pakistan, India, and Japan. The length of the spot-billed duck is about 55 – 63 cm (22 – 25 in). These birds weigh around 790 – 1,500 grams (1.7 – 3.3 lb). They are largely found in the freshwater lakes and open areas. The females lay 8 – 14 eggs. American Black Duck American Black Duck The American Black Duck is associated with the family of Anas rubripes, and is similar in size to the mallards. These species reside mostly in North America. These types of ducks are 48 – 63 cm (19 – 25 in) long. They weigh about 720 – 1,640 grams (1.6 – 3.6 lb). They build their habitats near water, ponds, brackish marshes, lakes, rivers, and other aquatic environments. American Black Duck Female lays 8 – 9 eggs. They are migratory to some extent. These birds predominantly feed on small insects and molluscs. The eggs are hatched after 30 days.

Philippine Duck The Philippine Duck belongs to the Anas luzonica family. These types of ducks are widespread in Philippine. Recent study has revealed that there are no more than 5,000 species have been left in Philippine. These birds have grayish body together with a black crown and brown legs. These species mainly feed on shrimp, fish, insects, and vegetation, and it frequents all types of wetlands. [1] Mottled Duck Mottled Duck The Mottled Duck is a family member of Anas fulvigula, and it has the same plumage as that of a mallard. Mottled duck is a medium sized bird and it mainly resides in Gulf of Mexico, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. These types of ducks do not migrate. The length of mottled duck measures around 44 – 61 cm (17 – 24 in). These species have dark plumage and orange legs. They predominantly feed on aquatic plants, and small insects. They build nests close to vegetation in order to hide it from the predators.

Red Crested Duck Red-crested Pochard The Red-crested Pochard is linked to the family of Netta rufina, and is a large diving duck. These ducks usually inhabits in the Indian Subcontinent, Africa, Central Asia, and Europe. They migrate infrequently. These birds form large flocks especially in winter. Red-crested pochards construct their nests nearby vegetation and lay 8 – 12 eggs. Southern Pochard Southern Pochard The Southern Pochard belongs to the family of Netta erythrophthalma and is native endemic to South America. They have a breeding range from Columbia, Brazil, Peru, Venezuela, and Argentine to Chile. They are found in the freshwater where there is abundance of vegetation which is more suitable for their habitat construction. The clutch size comprises of 6 – 15 eggs. These are the sociable birds and they have a congenial attitude toward others. Southern Pochard Species N. e. erythrophthalma (Wied-Neuwied, 1833) N. e. brunnea (Eyton, 1838).

Rosy Billed Pochard Rosy-billed Pochard The Rosy-billed Pochard belongs to the family of Netta peposaca and is commonly classified as a diving duck. Rosy-billed pochards are widespread in: Argentine Common Eider Common Eider The Common Eider is linked to the family of Somateria mollissima. This is one of those types of ducks that are widely distributed all throughout Europe, Siberia, and North America. These species are large birds and they breed in arctic and temperate regions. They can fly at a speed of 113 km/h (70 mph). The length of the common eider measures around 50 – 71 cm. Common eider weighs around 0.81 – 3.04 kg (1.8 – 6.7 lb). The wingspan measures about 80 – 110 cm (31 – 43 in). The females have brown plumage. They mostly feed on crustaceans, molluscs, and mussels. An estimated population of these species is more than 1,500,000 all throughout North America.

Muscovy DUck Muscovy Duck The Muscovy Duck belongs to the family of Cairina moschata and is native to Central America, Mexico, Texas, and Rio Grande Valley. They can survive under the temperature of 12oC. The length of these species is about 76 cm. The average length of an adult male measures about 86 cm (34 in). These ducks weigh around 4.6 – 6.8 kg (10 – 15 lb). Domestic ducks weigh about 2.7 – 3.6 kg (6.0 – 7.9 lb). Largest females have been recorded as 5 kg (11 lb); whereas largest male of about 10 kg (22 lb) weighed in Australia. The wild Muscovy duck measures 66 – 84 cm (26 – 33 in) by length. The wingspan of these wild ducks is about 137 – 152 cm (54 – 60 in). The wild Muscovy weighs around 1.1 – 4.1 kg (2.4 – 9.0 lb).

These types of ducks mainly inhabits on swamps, forests, streams, and grasslands. They primarily feed on small fish, reptiles, amphibians, crustaceans, insects, and millipedes. The females lay 8 – 16 eggs which comprise a clutch size. The eggs are incubated (keeping warm) for about 35 days. The chicks remain with their parents for their first 3 months. Ruddy Shelduck These species also breed in Iceland, Ireland, North America, Europe and Great Britain South African Shelduck South African Shelduck The South African Shelduck belongs to the family of Tadorna cana, and is a large bird that looks like geese, swans and ducks. The length of these birds is about 64 cm. They breed in Africa, Namibia, and South Africa. Paradise Shelduck Paradise Shelduck The Paradise Shelduck belongs to the family of Tadorna variegate, and it has a black head with a chestnut body. They feed on weeds, grass, and crops. These are monogamous birds and they make mates for long times. The breeding season lasts from August to December.

These types of ducks turn out to be mature after 2 years of their birth. The clutch size comprises of 9 eggs. Chicks fledge out after 2 months. Crested Shelduck Crested Shelduck The Crested Shelduck belongs to the family of Tadorna cristata, and is seriously an endangered species. These species breeds in Korea and Russia. Crested shelduck have a greenish brown crown and a brownish throat. The length of these birds is about 63 – 71 cm (25 – 28 in). The wingspan measures around 31 – 32 cm (12 – 13 in). They are found in North Korea, Northeast China, Southern Japan, and South Shanghai. These species are considered as partially migratory birds. These birds mainly feed on aquatic vegetation, agricultural crops, crustaceans, carrion, algae, invertebrates, and garbage. These birds are nocturnal feeders. These species breed all through Southern Russia, Korea, and Japan in winter. The breeding period lasts from May to July. These types of ducks lay 10 eggs and females are responsible for the incubation (keeping warm) process.

They tend to travel in flocks of 2 – 8 individuals. Falcated Duck Falcated Duck The falcated duck breeds all throughout eastern Asia, Chita, Amur, Russia, Aomori, Inner Mongolia, North Korea, China, Tuva, Kuril Islands, Krasnoyarsk, Japan, Hokkaido. These birds migrate to Southeast Asia, and places in India like Assam, Vietnam, Fujian, Jiangxi, Shaanxi, Hunan, Hubei, Myanmar, Pradesh, Hainan Taiwan, Anhui, China, Yunnan, Hunan, Zhejiang, and Bihar. They are mostly found in the wetlands, meadows, and lakes. They build nests on the ground nearby vegetation. The clutch size comprises of 6 – 10 eggs. These ducks are 48 – 54 cm long. Harlequin Duck Harlequin Duck The Harlequin Duck belongs to the family of Histrionicus histrionicus, and is a small sea duck. These species are also known as Lords in the North America. Other names include mountain ducks and glacier ducks.

These species breed in Russia, North America, Iceland, Greenland, and Western Europe. They are considered to be an endangered species. Harlequin Duck mainly feed on small birds, crustaceans, molluscs and small insects. Common Shelduck Common Shelduck The Common Shelduck is associated with the family of Tadorna tadorna. These species are endemic to Maghreb and Eurasia. These types of ducks are similar to the goose in their physical outlook. The males are slightly larger as compared to females. These species usually breed in the Great Britain coastline. They are largely feed on rabbits, haystacks, tree holes, and burrows. Raja Shelduck Raja Shelduck The Raja Shelduck belongs to the family of Tadorna radjah. They are sometimes known as Burdekin Duck. These birds reside in mangrove forests, Queensland, Northern Territory, and Western Australia. They like to live in fresh water, swamps, and wetlands. The clutch size comprises of 6 – 12 eggs. The incubation (keeping warm) period lasts for 30 days. The breeding season lasts from May to June.

The Raja Shelduck is listed as a protected bird in all states of Australia and penalties exist for harming or disturbing them. Musk Duck The Musk Duck is linked to the family of Biziura lobata. Musk ducks are widespread in Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and other fertile areas of the island. The length of the musk duck males measures around 60 – 70 cm. The adult females measure about 47 – 55 cm. These species are fond of open places like ponds, wetlands, and lakes. They spend most of their daytime under water in search of food. They primarily feed on water beetles, water snails, shellfish, and yabbies. These birds can breed even at the age of 20 years. Breeding season is not fixed, however the normal seasonal months ranges from July to January. The female alone is responsible for looking after the chicks. The clutch size consists of 3 – 5 eggs King Eider King Eider The King Eider belongs to the family of Somateria spectabilis and is mostly breed in the northeast Europe, Asia and North America. The females lay 4 – 7 eggs.

They are extensively found in Canada, United States, Benthic, Arctic coastal, tundra, Norway, Scotland, Alaska, and Kamchatka. These types of ducks eat mussels, molluscs, polychaete worms, and crustaceans. In winter season, these birds can form a flock of 100,000 birds. Spectacled Duck Spectacled Eider The Spectacled Eider is linked to the Somateria fischeri family and is mainly feed on Alaska and Siberia. The females lay 5 – 9 eggs in the breeding season. They eat invertebrates like crustaceans and molluscs. While traveling, they cover 100 km of vast distances very easily. These ducks are capable to dive into the 60 m deep water. The length of the spectacled Eider measures around 52 – 57 cm. Stellar’s Duck Steller’s Eider The Steller’s Eider belongs to the family of Polysticta stelleri. This bird is mainly found in Siberia and Alaska. The females lay 6 – 10 eggs.

These species can travel in flocks of more than 200,000 individuals. They eat crustaceans, mussels, and molluscs. The males are slightly larger in comparison to the females. Golden Eye Goldeneye Goldeneye duck belongs to the family of Bucephala and is mainly feed on small fish, crustaceans and other aquatic creatures. The Common Goldeneye is linked to the family of Bucephala clangula, and is a medium sized bird. These types of ducks are 45 – 52 cm (18 – 21 in) long. They weigh around 888 – 1400 g (1.9 – 3.1 lbs). The adult females are about 40 – 50 cm (16 – 20 inches) long, with the weight of around 500 – 1182 g (1.1 – 2.6 lbs). They have a golden eye and a white belly, along with yellow legs. The average width of an egg measures around 43.3 mm (1.7 in). These eggs are 59.3 mm (2.3 in) long.

The weight of the eggs is about 64 g (2.3 oz). The incubation (keeping warm) lasts for 28 – 32 days. The chicks stay in their nests for couple of days. The young birds take their first flight after first 2 months. Most of their feed comes from crustaceans. However, they regularly feed on insects and molluscs. Common golden eye duck has quite a few predators, amongst which owls, bears, hawks, eagles, mink, weasels, and raccoons are notable. Goldeneye Species The three living species are Common Goldeneye These species predominantly feed on insects, molluscs, crustaceans, and plants. They can dive 1.2 – 4.5 m (4 – 5 feet) down into the water. green winged teal Green-winged Teal The Green-winged Teal belongs to the family of Anas carolinensis and it mostly breeds in the North America. This specie does migrate in winters. They tend to form flocks while travelling. Females are males are not easily distinguishable in their plumages. These birds construct nests on the ground near vegetation so as to cover it.

These types of ducks subside in the northern hemisphere during summer. They breed in the Europe, northern Alaska, River delta, California, central Kansas, Wisconsin, Ontario, Quebec and Asia. These birds inhabits in ponds, swamps, lakes, and streams. The nests are at least 2 – 300 feet (6 – 91 m) farther from water. These birds predominantly feed on stems, seeds, nutgrasses, sedges, seeds, wheat, and barley. Most frequent predators include red foxes, skunks, raccoons, and skunks, and finally humans. Long tailed Duck Long-tailed Duck The Long-tailed Duck or Oldsquaw is a medium sized bird that belongs to the family of Clangula hyemalis. The length of these birds measures around 10 – 15 cm. The bill is a dark grey with the pink lineage. They breed in marshes and mountain lakes all throughout Alaska, Russia, Europe, Canada, and Asia. These are the migratory birds. They mainly feed on crustaceans, small fish, and molluscs. They dive 60 m deep into the water for feeding purposes.

Common Merganser Common Merganser The Common Merganser is a North American Bird that belongs to the family of Mergus merganser. These types of ducks primarily reside in lakes, wetlands, and forests of Europe and Asia. These ducks are 58 – 72 cm (23 – 28 in) long. The wingspan measures about 78 – 97 cm (31 – 38 in). Common merganser weighs around 0.9 – 2.1 kg (2.0 – 4.6 lb). Females are slightly smaller as compared to the males. They feed on molluscs, worms, crustaceans, amphibians, and small mammals and insect larvae. They are frequently seen on the water surface while searching for food. The females lay 6 – 17 yellowish eggs. The chicks fledge out after 60 to 70 days. These juveniles mature at the age of 2 years old. These species are the partial migrants in that the often move from the frozen lake waters and ponds.

Auckland Merganser Auckland Merganser The Auckland Merganser or Auckland Islands Merganser belongs to the family of Mergus and is similar in outlook with merganser. It has a reddish brown plumage and bluish tail together with grey wings. The males are slightly larger as compared to females. Evidence of its fossils suggested that the bird was formerly a native to South Island in New Zealand. Brazilian Merganser Brazilian Merganser The Brazilian Merganser belongs to the family of Mergus octosetaceus and is considered to be an endangered species with the population of only 250 individuals remaining. One of the chief reasons of its extinction is that none of its specie had been kept under captivity. The length of the Brazilian Merganser measures around 49 – 56 cm. The males are greater than females. Normally, these types of ducks do make any strong sound but it may create a Knack-Knack sound that is often heard while they’re in flight. The females lay 3 – 6 eggs in the month of June to July. These species are the permanent residents as they seldom migrate.

The females are responsible for incubating (keeping warm) the eggs. These birds primarily feed on small insects, molluscs, larvae, and fish. Humans are mainly responsible for the habitat destruction which is why the population is declining with the passage of time. Red-Breasted Merganser Red-breasted Merganser The Red-breasted Merganser belongs to the family of Mergus serrator and was first found in the mid 18th century. These birds are 51 – 62 cm (20 – 24 in) long. The wingspan measures around 70 – 86 cm (28 – 34 in). The males have a dark green shiny head along with a brownish breast. While flying, red breasted Merganser can reach a speed of 161 km/h (100 mph). These types of ducks are fond of eating aquatic plants, insects, fish and invertebrates. They breed in lakes and rivers in Greenland, Europe, Asia, and North America.

Hooded Merganser Hooded Merganser The Hooded Merganser belongs to the family of Lophodytes cucullatus and is a small member of a genus Lophodytes. These types of ducks are endemic to the North America. The females usually incubate (keeping warm) eggs. The chicks stay with their mother for more than 1 month. These species travel short distances. They predominantly feed on small fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. Spur Winged Goose Spur-winged Goose The Spur-winged Goose is associated with the family of Plectropterus gambensis and is a close relative of geese and shelducks. These are largely found in the wetlands of Africa. The length of an adult spur winged goose measures around 75 – 115 cm (30 – 45 in). These types of ducks weigh about 4 – 6.8 kg (8.8 – 15 lb). The females are slightly smaller than males. The plumages are predominantly black in color.

Salvador’s Teal Salvadori’s Teal The Salvadori’s Teal belongs to the family of Salvadorina waigiuensis and is a native to New Guinea. They build their habitats near flowing streams and alpine lakes. These species lay 2 – 4 eggs. There is a significant decline in the salvadori’s teal population. Torrent Duck Torrent Duck The Torrent Duck belongs to the family of Merganetta armata and is a close relative of Blue duck. Torrent duck breeds in the South America. These types of ducks are 43 – 46 cm (17 – 18 in) long. Small waterside caves and spots are the ideal places for its habitat. These birds are not afraid of swimming for longer periods of time. Torrent Duck Species Brazilian Teal Brazilian Teal The Brazilian Teal belongs to the family of Amazonetta brasiliensis and was previously believed to be a perching duck. These species have dark brown plumage along with red legs and bill. They travel in small flocks of no more than 20 individuals. Females and males are responsible for hatching eggs. They feed on fruits, seeds, insects, roots, and molluscs.

These types of ducks are extensively found in the South America, Paraguay, Uruguay, Bolivia, Guiana, Argentine, Venezuela, Guyana, Brazil, and Columbia. Barzilian Teal Species A. brasiliensis brasiliensis (Lesser Brazilian Teal A. brasiliensis ipecutiri (Greater Brazilian Teal Knob-Billed Duck Knob-billed Duck The Knob-billed Duck belongs to the family of Sarkidiornis melanotos and is mainly found in Africa, South Asia, Pakistan, and China. Apart from these places, knob-billed duck also breeds in Paraguay, Brazil, Trinidad, Argentine, and South America. These types of ducks reside in tropical wetlands. These birds are undoubtedly the largest species of duck with the length of about 56 – 76 cm (22 – 30 in). The wingspan measures around 116 – 145 cm (46 – 57 in). Knob-billed duck weigh around 1.03 – 2.9 kg (2.3 – 6.4 lb). These birds have white head with few dark marks. The females are smaller than males.

These ducks mainly breed in freshwater, lakes and swamps. Females lay up to 15 eggs. Knob Billed Duck Species Knob-billed Duck (Sarkidiornis melanotos melanotos) Comb Duck (Sarkidiornis melanotos sylvicola) Pink Eared Duck Pink-eared Duck The Pink-eared Duck belongs to the family of Malacorhynchus membranaceus and is extensively found in Australia. These ducks are 38 – 40 cm long. These species are close relatives of musk ducks. These types of ducks are widespread all over Australia and are primarily found nearby water. They predominantly feed on crustaceans, small insects, and mollusks. Cotton Pygmy Goose Cotton Pygmy Goose The Cotton Pygmy Goose belongs to the family of Nettapus coromandelianus and is a small perching duck that resides in Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, and Northern Australia. The length of cotton pygmy goose measures around 26 cm only. These birds weigh about 160 grams (5.5 oz). These types of ducks build their habitats in tree holes. The females lay ivory white 8 – 15 eggs.

They feed on insects, water lilies, and crustaceans. Lesser whistling Duck Lesser Whistling Duck The Lesser Whistling Duck or Indian Whistling Duck belongs to the family of Dendrocygna javanica. These types of ducks largely feed at night and they spend their entire daytime in paddy fields. Lesser whistling ducks subsist in India, Singapore, Nepal, China, Indonesia, valleys of Pakistan, and Malaysia. They are commonly near-water places especially where the vegetation is abundantly available, like lakes and rivers. The total population of these ducks counts to 20,000,000 individuals. They are not considered as endangered species. They largely feed on aquatic plants, grains, frogs, fish and worms. The clutch size comprises of 7 – 12 eggs. Males and females incubate eggs together. The hatching period lasts for 22 – 24 days. Under captivity, these birds have lived up to 9 years. Fulvous Duck Fulvous Whistling Duck The Fulvous Whistling Duck is associated with the family of Dendrocygna bicolor that breeds all throughout South America and Indian Subcontinent.

The females lay 8 – 12 eggs. They build their habitats near paddy fields and water reservoirs. They mainly feed on seeds and aquatic plants. The length of the fulvous whistling duck measures around 48 – 53 cm (19 – 21 in) Green Pygmy Goose Green Pygmy Goose The Green Pygmy Goose belongs to the family of Nettapus pulchellus and is a small duck that breeds in northern Australia. These types of ducks were first discovered in 1842 by John Gould. The length of the green pygmy goose measures around 30 – 36 cm (12 – 14 in). The wingspan is 48 – 60 cm (19 – 24 in). They lay 8 -12 eggs and the incubation (keeping warm) period last for 26 day. Wood Duck Wood Duck The Wood Duck belongs to the family of Aix sponsa and is mainly found in the North America. These types of ducks are 47 – 54 cm (19 – 21 in) long.

The wingspan of wood duck measures around 66 – 73 cm (26 – 29 in). They breed in swamps, marshes and ponds in North America and Mexico. These birds have very sharp claws other species lacks. Females lay 7 – 15 eggs that are incubated (keeping warm) for about 30 days. The wood ducks are non migratory birds. Mandarin Duck Mandarin Duck The Mandarin Duck is linked to the family of Aix galericulata and is a close relative of North American Wood duck. The length measures around 41 – 49 cm. The wingspan is about 65 – 75 cm. These birds have reddish face along with the red bill. These types of ducks are endemic to eastern Asia, Russia and China. Deforestation is the chief reason of its declining population. These species primarily feed on seeds, insects, snails and beechmast. Few of the most common predators include raccoons, Eurasian eagle owls , snakes, mink and otters. Australian Wood Duck Australian Wood Duck The Australian Wood Duck belongs to the family of Chenonetta jubata and it breeds all throughout Australia.

It’s close relative is ringed teal. The length of these birds measures around 45 – 51 cm. They predominantly feed on woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands. Construction of dams and ponds has led to the extinction of Australian wood duck. In spite of this, they are not considered to be an endangered species. The females lay 9 – 11 eggs. These types of ducks primarily feed on herbs, grasses, and crops. Scoter Scoter The scoter is related to the Melanitta family. These birds breed in North America, Europe, and Asia. They build their habitats near coastal waters and are mainly found in woodlands or tundra. They feed on insects, molluscs and crustaceas. Scoter Species There are 5 species of scoter duck: Black Scoter The Surf Scoter is related to the Melanitta perspicillata family. These types of ducks are commonly found in Europe, Alaska, Great Britain and Ireland. These birds form large flocks near coastal waters. They build their nests in woodlands in which 5 – 10 eggs are laid. The eggs weigh around 55 – 79 g (1.9 – 2.8 oz).

The width of eggs is about 43.9 mm (1.7 in) together with the length of 62.4 mm (2.5 in). The incubation (keeping warm) period lasts for 28 – 30 days. The chicks begin to fledge out after 55 days. A fully grown female weighs around 900 g (2 lbs). The length of an adult female is 44 cm (17 in). A fully grown male weighs around 1,050 g (2.3 lbs), with the length of 48 cm (19 in). They mainly feed on invertebrates, molluscs, insects and crustaceans. Common Scoter Common Scoter The Common Scoter belongs to the family of Melanitta nigra and it breeds all throughout Europe and Asia. These species measure around 43 – 54 cm by length. Common scoters form large flocks near coastal waters. They build their nests near lakes, rivers, and streams in which 6 – 8 eggs are laid generally. These types of ducks feed on molluscs, insects and crustaceans.

Smew Smew The Smew is associated with the family of Mergellus albellus and is a lone member of the genus Mergus. These species lay 6 – 9 off-white eggs. They breed all throughout Europe and Asia. They breed in trees, and in the coastal lines of Baltic Sea and Black Sea. Smew is not considered to be an endangered species. White Winged Scoter White-winged Scoter The White-winged Scoter is a large duck that belongs to the family of Melanitta deglandi. Females weigh around 950 – 1950 g (2.1 – 4.2 lb), with the length of 48 – 56 cm (19 – 22 in). the average weight of these females measure around 1180 g (2.6 lb), and the average length is 52.3 cm (21 in). The males weigh around 1360 – 2128 g (3 – 4.7 lb).

The length of these males measures about 53 – 60 cm (21 – 24 in), with the average weight of 1380 g (3.6 lb). These types of ducks breed all throughout Asia, America, great Lakes, and Canada. They construct their nests near lakes and rivers, in woodlands. Females lay 5 – 11 pinkish eggs. These eggs are 46.9 mm (1.8 in) wide, with the length of 68.2 mm (2.7 in); and the weight is 82.4 g (2.9 oz). The incubation (keeping warm) period lasts for 25 – 30 days. The chicks remain with their parents for about 3 weeks. The young white winged scoters begin to take their first flight after 65 – 75 days. They generally feed on small insects, crustaceans, and molluscs. Velvet Scoter Velvet Scoter The Velvet Scoter belongs to the family of Melanitta fusca and it breeds in Europe and Asia. Other breeding places include Siberia, Turkey, France, and Spain.

These types of ducks form large flocks of individuals near coastal waters of Black Sea and Caspian Sea. They build their nest on ground where vegetation is abundant, mostly near woodlands. The females lay 7 – 9 eggs. They primarily feed on molluscs and crustaceans. The length of these species measure around 51 – 58 cm. Blue Billed Duck The White-headed Duck belongs to the Oxyura leucocephala family and it has a reddish body. These types of ducks breed in North America, Spain and Central Asia. This specie is considered to be an endangered species. These kinds of birds do not fly properly and they feed on aquatic plants. Habitat destruction and human hunting has led to the destruction of these ducks from famous lakes. Eurasian Teal Eurasian Teal The Eurasian Teal, also known as common teal belongs to the Anas crecca family and it breeds in Eurasia. These species regularly form large flocks and are generally found in wetlands. They primarily feed on invertebrates such as crustaceans, small insects. The length of the Eurasian Teal measures around 34 – 43 cm (13 – 17 in).

The average weight of males is 360 grams (13 oz). The females weigh around 340 g (12 oz). The wingspan is 17.5 – 20.4 cm (6.9 – 0.8 in), with the length of 53 – 59 cm (21 – 23 in). The bill is 3.2 – 4 cm (1.3 – 1.6 in) long. They breed in Northern Eurasia, United Kingdom, Siberia, and Iceland. Most of these individuals are found near Mediterranean, Peninsula, Taiwan, South Asia, Persian Gulf, Congo River, Iran, Lake Victoria, Senegal River, Greenland, Nile valley, Indus River, Niger River, Malaysia, Inland, Palau, Marianas, South Carolina, and sea deltas. The regular diet includes; aquatic plants, insects, worms, larvae, crustaceans, grasses, sedges, grains, crops, seeds and fruits. These types of ducks are nocturnal species. The incubation (keeping warm) period lasts for 21 – 23 days. The clutch size consists of 5 – 16 eggs.

The chicks begin to move around after 25 – 30 days. The maximum lifespan is 27 years. Population of Eurasian Teal West Indian Whistling Duck West Indian Whistling Duck The West Indian Whistling is linked to the family Dendrocygna arborea family and it generally breeds in Caribbean .These species are also known as Black-billed and Cuban whistling ducks. They are widely distributed throughout Jamaica, Antigua and Barbados, Cuba, and other Islands. They can travel 100 km while migrating. These species build their habitats in tree cavities and tree branches. The normal clutch size comprises of 10 – 16 eggs. They are generally found in swamps and lakes. The length of these birds measure around 48 – 58 cm. These species are restricted to Caribbean. Wandering Whistling Duck Wandering Whistling Duck The Wandering Whistling Duck belongs to the family of Dendrocygna arcuata and it normally breeds in tropical Australia, Pacific, Islands, and Indonesia. These birds have great whistling sounds which gives rise to their names.

The length of these types of ducks measures around 54 – 60 cm. The average weight of wandering whistling ducks is about 750 grams. They are mostly found in water. Breeding period lasts from December to May. Females lay 6 – 15 eggs. Plumed Whistling Duck Plumed Whistling Duck The Plumed Whistling Duck belongs to the family of Dendrocygna eytoni and it generally breeds in New Guinea. There is no significant difference between males and the females. These species measure around 42 – 60 cm (16.5 – 24 in) by length. These types of ducks breed in New South Wales, Cape York, Victoria, Murray River and Savanna. Plumed whistling ducks predominantly feed on cropping grass. The breeding season lasts from January to March. The females lay 10 – 12 eggs; these creamy-colored eggs are 48 × 36 mm long. The incubation period lasts for 30 days.

White- faced Whistling Duck White-faced Whistling Duck The White-faced Whistling Duck is associated with the Dendrocygna viduata family and it mainly breeds in South America and Africa. These birds have long legs and head together with grey bill. The chicks do not look similar to their adults. They are extensively found near lakes, reservoirs where vegetation is excessively available. These types of ducks feed on plants, seeds and small insects. The females lay 8 – 12 eggs. These species infrequently build nests on trees. Black Bellied Whistling Duck Black-bellied Whistling Duck The Black-bellied Whistling Duck belongs to the family of Dendrocygna autumnalis and was previously known as tree duck. These birds breed in Central and South America, Texas, Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia and South Carolina. Black-bellied whistling ducks measure 48 – 53 cm (19 – 21 in) by length. These birds have red legs and long reddish bill. These ducks form large flocks and are naturally non-migrant birds. They build habitats near ponds, lakes, and marshes.

They primarily feed in invertebrates, arthropods, and aquatic plants. Black-bellied Whistling Duck Species Northern Black-bellied Whistling Duck, Dendrocygna autumnalis autumnalis – Southern Black-bellied Whistling Duck, Dendrocygna autumnalis discolor Fuegian Steamer Duck Fuegian Steamer Duck Ring-necked Duck | Audubon Field Guide Ducks and Geese Habitat Wooded lakes, ponds; in winter, also rivers, bays. In summer on freshwater marshes, ponds, and bogs, mainly in openings in forested country. In migration and winter on ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, sometimes on coastal estuaries, but generally not on saltwater bays. Although it mixes freely with other diving ducks on large lakes in winter, the Ring-neck is also found on small, tree-lined ponds, and associating with dabbling ducks on shallow waters. A strong and fast flier, it is able to take flight by springing up directly from the water, without the laborious take-off run of most diving ducks. Despite the name, the ring on its neck is almost never visible.

Photo Gallery Feeding Behavior Forages by diving, usually in water a few feet deep. Also forages at surface and sometimes up-ends in shallows. Opportunistic, it may move into flooded fields to feed. Eggs 8-10, sometimes 6-14. Vary in color: olive-gray, pale brown, pale buff. Incubation is by female only, 25-29 days. Young: female leads young to water 12-24 hours after they hatch; young may return to nest at night. Unlike many diving ducks, female and brood often hide in marsh rather than seeking safety on open water. Young find their own food, are capable of flight 49-55 days after hatching. Female may remain with young until they are old enough to fly, unlike most ducks. Young female leads young to water 12-24 hours after they hatch; young may return to nest at night. Unlike many diving ducks, female and brood often hide in marsh rather than seeking safety on open water. Young find their own food, are capable of flight 49-55 days after hatching.

Female may remain with young until they are old enough to fly, unlike most ducks. Diet mostly aquatic plants, insects. Diet varies with season and habitat. Feeds on seeds, stems, and roots of many aquatic plants, including pondweeds, sedges, smartweeds, grasses, algae, and others. Also eats aquatic insects and mollusks. Young ducklings feed mainly on insects. Nesting Pair formation activity begins in winter. Courtship displays by male include laying head far back and then thrusting it forward; also swimming with head feathers erected, nodding rapidly. Nest site is on dry hummock, clump of brush, or mat of floating vegetation, close to open water. Nest is shallow bowl of grasses, sedges, weeds, lined with down. | The Wildlife Trusts The Wildlife Trusts Steve Ashton About The pintail is an uncommon dabbling duck, which rarely breeds in Britain and is only likely to be seen during the winter when small numbers may be found wherever other ducks are common. Larger numbers gather on selected sheltered estuaries, such as the Wash and the Dee Estuary. It is also found across North America.

Like all dabbling ducks, Pintails feed at the surface rather than diving for their food. Pintails eat plant food when dabbling, but will supplement their diet with insects and molluscs in the breeding season. How to identify The Pintail is easily distinguished by its long, pointed tail feathers. Males have a chestnut-coloured head, white neck and grey body, while females are mottled brown with a smaller, pointed tail. Pintails also have a long, graceful neck. Where to find it Mainly a winter visitor to coasts and estuaries. Small numbers nest, particularly in northern Scotland. Habitats December How can people help Pintails were once a very common duck across the globe, but it is declining due to hunting and human activity, and is now a rare breeder in Britain due to its specific habitat requirements - shallow pools in open, grassland areas. These wetlands are threatened by development, drainage and climate change. The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland nature reserves for the benefit of the wildlife they support.

You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you'll find out about exciting wildlife happenings, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and be helping local wildlife along the way. British Waterfowl Association: Diving Ducks Introduction | Swans | Wild geese | Shelducks | Whistling ducks | Perching ducks | Diving ducks | Dabbling ducks DIVING DUCKS Diving ducks encompass several tribes, pochards, sea ducks (including the subtribe of eiders) and stiff-tails. With their legs set further back on their body, closer to the tail than dabbling ducks, they are all ideally formed to be efficient divers but less well adapted for land. Diving ducks dive and feed at the bottom, often many feet below the waters surface. A pond should be at least 1 metre (3') deep to accommodate diving ducks, it is also important that it has sloped sides to enable easy access and egress. Since some diving ducks do not like to leave the water it is necessary to place food dishes at the waters edge or place food on the water itself.

Pochards are a group of 15 diving duck species, they are omnivorous therefore wheat and pellets is suitable to supplement their diet. European pochard and tufted duck are a good choice of starter species as they are both hardy, with a good lifespan and will breed well given the right conditions. Sea ducks are well adapted to sea life but the majority do nest inland, the tribe includes species such as mergansers and goldeneye and the subtribe eiders. These waterfowl do need a diet high in protein such as shrimp, pieces of fish and ground meat. In addition they can be fed wheat, pellets and finely chopped greens. Eiders in particular are almost exclusively carnivorous. Stiff-tail ducks are a tribe distinctive in their appearance and behaviour, characterised by their long pointed tail. The majority are southern hemisphere ducks although ruddy duck and white-headed range far north and are more often seen in collections. The most aquatic of all waterfowl, it is important to supply grains on the water.

EUROPEAN EIDER (Somateria mollissima mollissima) Origin: Europe and northern hemisphere Eider duck European eiders (also known as common eider) are not often kept in starter wildfowl collections due to their special dietary requirements. They are however easy to tame and very ornamental. European eiders have a distinctive black crown, pale green nape and black and white body plumage. The drake has a dove-like cooing call whereas the duck has a repetitive and hoarse call rather like grunting. The European eider is a sea duck that mostly keeps close to shore. During breeding time their preferred habitat is sheltered shallow coves and bays or islets. In its natural environment the European eider is a colonial nester. They nest on the ground filling their nest with a large amount of feather down. eiders tend to lay 4-6 eggs which they incubate for 26-27 days. Ducklings often congregate in small crèches once they have left the nest.

TUFTED DUCK (Aythya fuligula) | Surrey Wildlife Trust Surrey Wildlife Trust Steve Ashton About The pintail is an uncommon dabbling duck, which rarely breeds in Britain and is only likely to be seen during the winter when small numbers may be found wherever other ducks are common. Larger numbers gather on selected sheltered estuaries, such as the Wash and the Dee Estuary. It is also found across North America. Like all dabbling ducks, Pintails feed at the surface rather than diving for their food. Pintails eat plant food when dabbling, but will supplement their diet with insects and molluscs in the breeding season. How to identify The Pintail is easily distinguished by its long, pointed tail feathers. Males have a chestnut-coloured head, white neck and grey body, while females are mottled brown with a smaller, pointed tail. Pintails also have a long, graceful neck. Where to find it Mainly a winter visitor to coasts and estuaries. Small numbers nest, particularly in northern Scotland.

Habitats December How can people help Pintails were once a very common duck across the globe, but it is declining due to hunting and human activity, and is now a rare breeder in Britain due to its specific habitat requirements - shallow pools in open, grassland areas. These wetlands are threatened by development, drainage and climate change. The Wildlife Trusts manage many wetland nature reserves for the benefit of the wildlife they support. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you'll find out about exciting wildlife happenings, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and be helping local wildlife along the way. dabbling duck | bird | Britannica.com Dabbling duck Alternative Titles: dipping duck, freshwater duck, pond duck, river duck, surface-feeding duck Related Topics vertebrate Dabbling duck, also called dipping, surface-feeding, pond, river, or freshwater duck, any of about 38 species of Anas and about 5 species in other genera, constituting the tribe Anatini, subfamily Anatinae, family Anatidae (order Anseriformes).

They feed mainly on water plants, which they obtain by tipping-up in shallows—uncommonly by diving (with opened wings); they often forage near the shore for seeds and insects. The bill is flat and broad, the hindtoe unlobed. Dabbling ducks float high in the water and are swift fliers, leaping upward on noisy wings before attaining level flight, usually in compact flocks. Common, or northern, pintail (Anas acuta). © Lawrence E. Naylor—The National Audubon Society Collection/Photo Researchers Occurring worldwide, chiefly on inland waters, dabbling ducks are most common in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and are strongly migratory. Males typically have bold plumage patterns except during the postbreeding flightless period, when they resemble the drab females. Hens tend to be slightly smaller than drakes and usually are more vocal—quacking frequently and loudly. The nest, a grass-lined hollow in thick cover by the waterside, usually is blanketed with down from the hen’s breast. She may lay in more than one nest—of her own kind or of another species.

The hen takes charge of incubating the single clutch of 6–12 eggs for 20–25 days, and she alone rears and protects the downy ducklings. Young birds can fly in about two weeks, and they mature in their first year. The tribe includes some of the world’s finest game birds: the black duck (Anas rubripes), much sought after by hunters; the mallard ; the gadwall (Anas strepera); the garganey (A. querquedula); the pintail (A. acuta), perhaps the world’s most abundant waterfowl; the shoveler (Anas, or Spatula, clypeata), the “spoonbill” of hunters; the teals, races of Anas crecca and other species; the wigeons, Anas, or Mareca, americana and A., or M., penelope. Common, or northern, pintail (Anas acuta). © Lawrence E.

Naylor—The National Audubon Society Collection/Photo Researchers Learn More in these related articles: Kootenay Lake » Birds >> swimmers >> diving ducks Diving Ducks Ducks are sometimes divided into two broad groups: Dabblers and Divers. A diving duck feeds well below the Lake&#8217s surface, whereas a dabbling duck feeds from the surface of the Lake by merely dipping its head down. The structure of the bodies of these two groups differs in ways that facilitate the way they feed. A diving duck has large paddle-like feet and small wings, a combination which caters to underwater swimming, but makes some other activities more difficult. The smaller wings make it harder for a diver to become airborne, and it uses its big feet to run across the water to gain the necessary speed to lift off. Also, the larger feet, set towards the back of the body, makes the diver somewhat clumsy on land. Divers eat aquatic insects, plants and mollusks.

Diving ducks which have been sighted around Kootenay Lake are: Canvasback, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck, Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, Common Goldeneye, Barrow's Goldeneye, Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser, Common Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser, Ruddy Duck. Common Goldeneye, female The goldeneye repeatedly spread and shook its wings, as if to clear them of something. Kootenay Lake is on the southern end of this duck’s summer range and the northern end of its winter range and so can be seen here all year long. Common Goldeneye, female In this shot just before the goldeneye dived, one can see the webbed feet spread ready to propel the bird down. The same bird as on the left, seen in profile. While the bill of the female Common Goldeneye is dark in the summer, from about November to May, it gains a yellow patch. This view is early December. A Barrow’s Goldeneye couple, the male has comma–shaped white patch in the lores. At this time of the year, the female has a mainly yellow bill with a dark tip.

Two male Barrow’s (forward) and a Common Goldeneye (back). The male Common Goldeneye has a distinctive white oval on the cheek, and a black head. Common Goldeneye couple. Barrow’s Goldeneye males have a white crescent, rather than the oval of the Common Goldeneye. The following male is a juvenile (first winter). The mature Barrow’s male is also distinguished from the Common by the extent of the white markings on the back. Barrow’s Goldeneye is found from the Rockies (summer) to the Coast (winter) and is mostly seen around Kootenay Lake in the fall as it moves from the one region to the other. Two Barrow’s Goldeneye couples. The Barrow’s and Common Goldeneye females are not as easy to distinguish as are the males. But, the beak of the Common is mainly black while that of the Barrow’s is mainly yellow. The fact that the female differences are minor may account for the fact that hybrids can sometimes be seen. Common Merganser, female. The bird lounging in this way as if on a settee, reminds me of Ingre&#8217s 1814 oil painting, La Grande Odalisque.

Merganser chicks often hitch a ride on the back of mother—but there isn’t always room for all. Nap time in the play school for merganser chicks. Common Merganser, male Female merganser scouring the depths for delectables. Bufflehead Duck, male. This is the smallest duck on the Lake. Its head apparently reminded early observers of that of a buffalo; thus its name. While the male Bufflehead Duck shows extensive white, the female only has an oval patch of white on the cheek. The Bufflehead is most common on the Lake during the colder months, having spent the breeding season farther north. This Bufflehead Duck is diving. The female Ring-necked Duck is a more beige version of the male (below). She has a white eye ring. While the male Ring-necked Duck is more easily identified by the ring around the base of the beak than around the neck; this picture does show the faint redish ring around the neck that gives the duck its name. Two female Greater Scaups on the left and one male on the right. The female shows more brown and extensive white on the face.

Dozens of Greater Scaups and a lone Redhead Duck are visiting the Lake in the wintertime. Greater Scaups land on the lake: male on the left; females on the right. A female Greater Scaup touches down on the Lake. Diving ducks (these are Buffleheads) have small wings making it difficult to become airborne. They must run across the water to pick up speed. One only sees the male Hooded Merganser with his hood up during mating season. The female Hooded Merganser can be quite plain. The female with her hood raised is striking. A hood couple takes to the air. This is an uncommon sighting around here:, a Red–breasted Merganser female which was seen near Taghum in December.

Question: What name is given to ducks which feed mainly at the surface rather than by diving?
Answer: Dabbling ducks