Bird of the Week: Ruddy Duck

This week’s top bird is a top-notch duck, the ruddy duck. With its bold breeding plumage, large head and unmistakable stiff tail, this is an easy bird to recognize. Its behavior is also fascinating as it sinks below the surface of the water to feed or dives quickly to avoid predators.

What fascinates me about ruddy ducks is their solitary attitude. While they do travel in tight-knit flocks, they often shun the presence of other ducks and geese at the same pond. This may be because they are slower swimmers at the surface of the water, or else their small size can make them feel more threatened in a group of larger waterfowl.

Are ruddy ducks part of your life list? Share your stories in the comments!

Ruddy Duck
Photo © Kevin Cole