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Ruddy Duck

Oxyura jamaicensis ORDER: ANSERIFORMES FAMILY: ANATIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

Ruddy Duck Photo

© Kevin T. Karlson

A member of the tribe of "stiff-tailed ducks," the Ruddy Duck has a spiky tail that it often holds straight up in display.

Inside Birding
For complete information on this species, visit The Birds of North America Online.

Appearance

Ducks
Ducks
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Small duck.
  • Large white cheek patches.
  • Dark cap.
  • Bill blue or bluish.
  • Long tail often held up.
  • Breeding male bright cinnamon red.

Immature Description

Similar to adult female.

Range Map Help

Ruddy Duck Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Similar Species

  • Female Black Scoter has whitish cheeks, but is larger, darker, has a dark chest, and prefers salt water (ruddy prefers fresh water).