This large dabbling duck is very dark brown overall. Back and flank feathers lack paler margins, resulting in a less patterned appearance than most other female dabbling ducks. The head and neck are paler with a dark crown, dark line through the eye, and fine streaking. Only Mottled Duck compares in terms of the sharp contrast between the nearly solid dark breast and the much paler neck. The speculum is blue to violet, bordered in black. The trailing edge of the speculum may show a very thin white border on some birds. More extensive white bordering on the speculum suggests hybridization with Mallard. In flight, the white underwing contrasts with the dark body. Males are darker than females, and have a plain greenish-yellow bill. Females have a dark olive bill, never orange like a Mallard.

Length: 48 (cm) Wingspan: 84 (cm)

Voice:

A harsh quacking.

Habitat:

Saltwater and freshwater marshes and ponds.

Behavior:

Stronger diver than most dabbling ducks. In flight, wingbeats are more deliberate (similar to Mallard) than most other ducks.

Feeding:

Eats a variety of aquatic plants, invertebrates, fish, and grains. Dabbles and dives for food.