Ruddy Duck
NameRuddy Duck
Common NameRuddy Duck
Scientific NameOxyura jamaicensis
FamilyAnatidae
Wingspan (cm)51.5
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)550
Plumage DetailsBreeding males have a bright rufous (reddish-brown) body, a black cap, a contrasting white cheek patch, and a vibrant sky-blue bill. Females and non-breeding males are duller brown with a dark cap, a dusky stripe across a whitish cheek, and a grayish bill. All have a distinctive stiff, dark tail often held vertically.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet species, but males perform a courtship display involving head-bobbing and drumming sounds produced by striking their bill against their chest, creating a 'bup-bup-bup' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across North America, from Canada south through the United States. Winters in the southern U.S., Mexico, and Central America. Also found in the Caribbean and has been introduced to Europe.
Identifying FeaturesStiff tail often held upright, Bright blue bill (breeding male), White cheek patch (breeding male), Reddish-brown body (breeding male), Diving behavior
Description
The Ruddy Duck is a small, compact diving duck known for its stiff, spiky tail often held upright. Males in breeding plumage are particularly striking with a bright blue bill and reddish body, while females and non-breeding males are duller brown.
