Oxyura jamaicensis jamaicensis

(Gmelin, 1789)

Vernacular names
English : Ruddy duck
French : Érismature rousse

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Anseriformes
Family : Anatidae
Notes : 2 other subspecies known.

Identification
Unmistakable subspecies, growing to 43 cm in length for a weight of 800 g. Round body, large head, wide bill. Male is chestnut brown with black and white head and bright blue bill. Female is dull brown with lighter areas on cheeks and belly.

Range and habitat
The subspecies occurs in Northern and Central America from western and Central Canada to most of USA, south to Mexico and west Indies. Lives in swamps, lakes and pools with emergent vegetation, up to 2500 meters.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species has been introduced and treated as a pest around the world. Common but habitat loss due to oil spills in wintering areas is a problem.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

Back to “Ducks, swans and relatives” page