Bird Guide

Lake Duck vs Ruddy Duck

Lake Duck (Oxyura vittata)

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
Ruddy Duck (Oxyura jamaicensis)

Ruddy Duck

Oxyura jamaicensis

Large608 gWetland

The ruddy duck is a small, compact duck with a stout, scoop-shaped bill, and a long, stiff tail which it holds cocked upward. It has a slightly peaked head and a fairly short, thick neck. The male ruddy duck has a blackish cap that contrasts with its bright white cheeks. In summer, it has a rich chestnut body with a bright blue bill. In winter, it is a dull gray-brown above and paler below with a dull gray bill. The female and first-year male are brownish, somewhat like the winter male but with a blurry stripe across the pale cheek patch. Voice: Both male and female ruddy ducks are not known to be very vocal most of the year, though they do become more vocal when courting and raising young. Males are known to produce short "aa-anh" calls and other noises in short bursts.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo: John Krampl · CC BY 4.0

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