This diving duck is instantly recognized by its unique ski-slope head profile. There is no angle change between the slope of the forehead and the long, all-black, wedge-shape bill. The head shape is otherwise gentle curved from the forecrown to the nape. Male: The head and neck rich chestnut-brown, darkening to blackish on the face and crown, and the eye is red. Breast and undertail region are black. Sides are bright white, and the back is white with fine gray barring. In Summer and early Fall males assume a duller overall plumage that resembles an adult female. In this plumage the flanks and back are dingy gray-brown and the breast is dark to medium brown creating less contrast. Female: Head and neck are pale warm brown, whitish feathering immediately around the eye suggests a diffuse eyering, with a weak white stripe extending behind the eye and down onto the cheek. Foreneck and and throat may also be whitish. The breast is medium brown instead of black and the sides and back are dingy gray with some brown tones, belly is white.

Superficially similar Redhead is smaller overall and lacks the tell-tale ski-slope head profile. The angle change between the steeper forehead and a much smaller bill is easily seen on Redheads. Also, their bills are pale blue (blue-gray in females) with a dark tip. Male Redheads have a more rusty red head, yellow eyes, more extensive black on the breast, and their flanks and back are darker gray than any plumage of Canvasback. Female Redheads are more uniform medium brown than female Canvasbacks, with no contrast between the flank and breast color.

Length: 48 (cm) Wingspan: 71 (cm)

Habitat:

Breeds along small lakes, deep marshes, and sheltered bays of larger lakes. Winters on large lakes and coastal waters.

Behavior:

Seldom ventures onto dry land. Feeds and rests on the water. Requires a running start to take flight.

Feeding:

Dives for a wide variety of aquatic plants and animals.