Ruddy Duck

38-41 cm (15-16") Common. Marshes, ponds, lakes. Small chubby diving duck with a broad bill. Stiff tail often held straight up. Often swims low in water.

Male: black head; bold white cheek - from bill to ear; reddish-brown body; light blue bill. Winter: dark cap; large entirely white cheek; grayish body; dull blue or gray bill. Similar female has line through cheek.

Female: head appears two-toned - dark crown and light cheek with a line through it; brown body; dark bill. Similar winter male has an entirely white cheek with no line through it.

In flight: must run on water surface to achieve flight; small, fast flying; plain wings.

Song: mostly silent, clucking.

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