Bird Of The Week

Ruddy Duck

(Oxyura jamaicensis)

Trust me, you'll know if you've seen one or not. With its blue bill, black cap, white chin and chestnut body there is no other bird that can compare. The first time you see one, you have to blink several times and/or rub your eyes to make sure you're not seeing things.

But when you rub your eyes, it does disappear. You begin to think of how odd that duck was, when, fifteen seconds later, it pops back into your sight again. By now, you're slightly confused. Then you see its head dip into the water and it dives deep into the water. You know for certain that you're seeing something real.

Do you want to see this unique bird? Do they live around you? 

In Canada, Ruddy Ducks are around only the summer and are found from Manitoba to the Rockies. Their habitat? Marshes, especially one that border lakes and ponds. (Oak Hammock Marsh is a good hot-spot) You won't find one anywhere else unless it's in the air.

Facts

Wingspan: 56-62 cm (22-24.4 in)

Length: 35-43 cm (13.8-16.9 in)

Weight: 300-850 g (10.6-30 oz)

Food: Omnivore. Eats most aquatic insects and crustaceans. May also eat water weeds.

Habitat: Marshes, especially ones that border lakes and ponds.

http://christophermartinphotography.com/tag/ruddy-duck/

http://www.chesapeakebay.net/fieldguide/critter/ruddy_duck