 |
| Fact Sheet |
| Scientific Name |
Oxyura jamaicensis |
| Wing spread |
23 inches |
| Body length |
15 inches |
| Weight |
1.2 pounds |
| Description |
The ruddy duck is a small duck with a compact body shape. Males have a reddish brown body, white face patch, dark brown cap, and blue bill. Females have a grayish brown body. Both sexes have a nondescript brownish wing with white flecking. |
| Nesting Habitat |
Ruddy ducks generally nest in bulrush and cattail stands surrounding wetlands. |
| Clutch size |
8 eggs |
| Incubation period |
24 days |
| Status in North Dakota |
Ruddy ducks are common during nesting and migration seasons in North Dakota. |
| Food habits |
Feeds primarily on bulrush seeds and aquatic insect larvae. |
| Fun Facts |
Ruddy ducks are sometimes referred to as bull-necked teal because of their chunky bodies and thick necks. |
