Blue-billed Duck vs Lake Duck

Blue-billed Duck

Oxyura australis

Large798 gWetland

The tail feathers for both the male and female are made up of thick, spine-like shafts. The tail is usually held flat on the surface of the water, or held erect when defensive. The male also holds the tail erect during courtship displays. The feet are quite powerful, which aids in swimming and diving. The duck sits low in the water in comparison to other ducks. During breeding season, apart from the aforementioned bright-blue bill, the male's head and neck are glossy black, and the back and wings are a rich chestnut.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: Thekoreangothic at English Wikipedia · Public domain

Lake Duck

Oxyura vittata

Large643 gWetland

The lake duck grows to 36–46 centimetres (14–18 in). Females weigh 510–700 grams (18–25 oz) and males 600–850 grams (21–30 oz). Males can be distinguished from Andean duck (Oxyura ferruginea), a similar species, by being smaller and having a flatter head.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: Leonel Roget · CC BY 4.0

Photos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Blue-billed Duck and Lake Duck.